Atenolol

Uses of Atenolol

Atenolol is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. It also is used to prevent angina (chest pain) and improve survival after a heart attack. Atenolol is in a class of medications called beta blockers. It works by relaxing blood vessels and slowing heart rate to improve blood flow and decrease blood pressure.

Precautions and Warnings

You should not use this atenolol if you have a serious heart condition such as “AV block,” very slow heartbeats, or heart failure.

Do not stop taking atenolol without first talking to your doctor. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.

If you are having any type of surgery, be sure the surgeon knows ahead of time that you are using this medicine.

Atenolol can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol, which could increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking this medicine.

Atenolol is only part of a complete program of treatment for hypertension that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely if you are being treated for hypertension.

If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication even if you feel fine. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

You should not use atenolol if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• a serious heart condition such as “AV block” (second or third degree);
• slow heartbeats;
• heart failure; or
• if your heart cannot pump blood properly.

To make sure atenolol is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• congestive heart failure;
• coronary artery disease (hardened arteries);
• asthma, bronchitis, emphysema;
• diabetes;
• overactive thyroid;
• liver or kidney disease;
• pheochromocytoma (tumor of the adrenal gland);
• peripheral vascular disease such as Raynaud’s syndrome; or
• allergies (or if you are undergoing allergy treatments or skin-testing).

Atenolol may harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you become pregnant while using this medicine. Atenolol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding a baby.

Atenolol is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

Dosage

Usual Adult Dose of Atenolol for Hypertension: Initial dose: 50 mg orally once a day

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Low blood pressure
• Slow heartbeat

Serious Side Effects:

• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing, especially while lying down
• Swelling in your feet, ankles, or legs
• Unusually fast weight gain
• Unusual tiredness