What is a common effect of metoprolol that clients need to be aware of?

Metoprolol is a type of beta-blocker primarily used to manage high blood pressure and certain heart conditions. One common effect that clients should be aware of is dizziness. This can occur due to the medication's ability to lower blood pressure, which might lead to orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing up) and cause feelings of lightheadedness or vertigo, especially when a person first starts taking the medication or if the dosage is adjusted.

Awareness of dizziness is crucial because it can impact daily activities and increase the risk of falls, especially in older adults or those with other health concerns. Therefore, clients are advised to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position and to avoid activities that require full alertness until they understand how the medication affects them.