Atenolol
Drug name: Atenolol
Other names used:
- Tenormin®
- Tenormin I.V.®
Active Ingredients:
Atenolol
Therapeutic actions: Atenolol is a type of medicine called beta-adrenergic blocking agents. Atenolol works by blocking beta receptors in the body. Beta receptors are located in many places in the body, including the heart and blood vessels. Adrenaline attaches to these receptors and increases heart rate, the force with which the heart pumps blood , blood pressure.
Atenolol works by blocking a specific type of beta receptor called beta-1 receptors. By blocking beta-1 receptors, Atenolol decreases heart rate, both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and the workload of the heart. Therefore the heart requires less oxygen and blood to work.
Indications: Atenolol is used :
- to control high blood pressure
- to relieve angina symptoms
- to improve survival following a heart attack.
Atenolol can also be recommended for the treatment of migraines or anxiety.
Contraindications and cautions:
You should not take atenolol if you:
- if you have an allergy to atenolol, or any inactive component used to make Atenolol.
- If you have a slow heartbeat (bradycardia)
- if you have serious heart failure.
- if you have certain types of irregular heart rhythms
You should talk with your health care provider prior to taking Atenolol if you have:
- Heart disorders such as congestive heart failure, a history of heart attack, irregular heart rhythm
- A slow heart rate
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Emphysema
- Kidney insufficiency
- Diabetes
- Depression
- Pheochromocytoma
- Psoriasis
- Hyperthyroidism
- Raynaud's phenomenon or other circulation problems
- A blood vessel disease
- Any allergies to other beta blockers, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
- Are pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
- Are breastfeeding.
- Will be undergoing surgery or anesthesia
Atenolol side effects: There are possible side-effects associated with this medicine that can affect individuals in different ways. If a side effect is stated here, that does not necessarily mean the fact that all people using Atenolol will experience it or any other.
- dizziness
- stomach pain
- diarrhea
- lightheadedness
- tiredness
- drowsiness
- depression
- fainting
- breath disorders
- swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- unusual weight gain
The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer.
For more information about any other possible risks associated with Atenolol, please read the information provided with Atenolol or consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Interactions: It is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist what medicines you are already taking, including those bought without a prescription and herbal medicines, before you start treatment with Atenolol. Similarly, check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medication while taking this one, to ensure that the combination is safe.
Especially pay attention to the following drugs:
- Reserpine
- Felodipine (Plendil®)
- Nisoldipine (Sular®).
- Indomethacin (Indocin®)
- Clonidine (Catapres®, Duraclon®)
- Calcium channel blockers, such as:
- Amlodipine (Norvasc®)
- Amlodipine/benazepril (Lotrel®)
- Verapamil (Calan®, Covera®, Verelan®)
- Diltiazem (Cardizem®, Tiazac®)
- Nifedipine (Adalat®, Procardia®)
- Antacids containing calcium, such as Tums®, Alka-2®, Titralac™, and others
- Ampicillin (Omnipen®, Polycillin®, Principen®, Totacillin®)
- Certain Diabetes medicines, such as glyburide (Diabeta®, Glynase™, Micronase®).
Additional Information: DO NOT SHARE Atenolol with others. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS PRODUCT, as well as syringes and needles, if needed during treatment, out of the reach of children. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials.
