Hi. I apologize for the lengthy post this will be. I was started on Toprol-XL back in December of 2002. Prior to the Toprol, I was taking Verapamil 240 mg. I was taken off the Verapamil (and Elavil) at that time (December) because my doctor was not only using it for my HBP, but my chronic headaches as well. It didn't do much for my headaches, but the Verapamil controlled my BP just fine, and I have since learned that my headaches stem from my TMJ problems. Since I've started the Toprol, I've had some unpleasant side effects. I've gained weight, I'm exhausted all the time, I have absolutely NO sex drive at all, etc. etc. I went to the doctor last week, because I've been having some edema in my lower right leg. We did some tests to rule out a blood clot and it was negative, so I was put on a diuretic and a potassium supplement. It's worked fine, the swelling is gone and other than the 20 or so trips to the bathroom in the morning, I'm feeling better. I have two questions. 1)How long should I be expected to stay on this diuretic? I'm so glad it's working, but it's rather irritating to spend the majority of my morning in the bathroom. Since it works, I won't complain too much...but it's still kinda frustrating. 2) I have a follow up appointment with the doctor this next week...Should I ask to switch back to the Verapamil? I had no side effects and since my headaches are being caused by my TMJ and will be there until I get proper treatment for that, I think I'd be much better off by getting back on that and off this Toprol. The Toprol has controlled my BP just fine, but the side effects are almost just not worth it. Again, I apologize for the long post, but as you can tell, I have some concerns. Anyone else have problems with Toprol that I'm experiencing as well? (Okay, I guess that's my THIRD question!)I'd appreciate any advice! Thanks in advance!

With Toprol XL, the loss of sex drive from it is not the most prominent side effect listed. However, when I was on this (and atenolol) that and ED from them was more than obvious.

I went to my cardiologist after putting up with it for about 2 years and said, "you know...for a 36 year old, I never imagined I would have ZERO sex drive. Perhaps you could package Toprol with something addictive and get all prior convicted sex offenders addicted to it--you could probably end up rehabilitiating the whole population of them."

He immediately agreed that it was a problem, and I no longer take it.

If the diuretic is working and you feel best on it, then by all means I would stick with it.