What are the common and serious side effects of atenolol 50mg. How does atenolol work to treat high blood pressure and chest pain. What precautions should be taken when using atenolol. How does atenolol interact with other medications.

Understanding Atenolol: A Powerful Beta-Blocker Medication

Atenolol is a widely prescribed medication belonging to the beta-blocker class of drugs. It’s primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), angina (chest pain), and to reduce the workload on the heart following a heart attack. Available as both a brand-name drug (Tenormin) and a generic version, atenolol comes in tablet form for oral administration.

The effectiveness of atenolol lies in its ability to block beta receptors in the heart and blood vessels. By doing so, it prevents adrenaline from activating these receptors, which would otherwise increase blood pressure and heart rate. This mechanism of action results in relaxed blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and reduced chest pain.

How Does Atenolol Work in the Body?

Atenolol’s primary function is to manage symptoms rather than permanently alter blood pressure or chest pain. It achieves this by:

• Relaxing blood vessels to lower blood pressure
• Reducing the heart’s demand for oxygen
• Decreasing the workload on the heart muscle
• Helping to prevent heart attacks and heart damage

Common Side Effects of Atenolol 50mg

While atenolol is generally well-tolerated, it can cause various side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone experiences these side effects, and many may be mild and temporary. However, being aware of potential adverse reactions is crucial for patients taking this medication.

What Are the Most Frequently Reported Side Effects?

The more common side effects of atenolol include:

• Cold hands and feet
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Reduced sex drive or impotence
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained tiredness
• Leg pain
• Lower than usual blood pressure

These side effects often subside within a few days to a couple of weeks as the body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects and Precautions

While less common, atenolol can potentially cause more severe side effects that require immediate medical attention. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for patient safety.

What Serious Side Effects Should Patients Watch For?

Serious side effects of atenolol may include:

1. Allergic reactions (large, red rash; fever; swelling of hands, feet, ankles, throat, or tongue; trouble breathing)
2. Depression (feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, tiredness, trouble focusing)
3. Unusual weight gain (swelling of feet, ankles, or arms)

If any of these symptoms occur, it’s imperative to seek medical help immediately. In case of life-threatening symptoms, emergency services should be contacted without delay.

Special Warnings and Precautions for Atenolol Use

Atenolol carries several important warnings that patients and healthcare providers should be aware of to ensure safe and effective use of the medication.

What is the Boxed Warning for Atenolol?

Atenolol has a boxed warning, the most serious type of warning from the FDA. This warning emphasizes the danger of abruptly stopping atenolol treatment. Sudden discontinuation can lead to:

• Exacerbation of chest pain
• Significant increase in blood pressure
• Potential heart attack

If cessation of atenolol is necessary, it should be done gradually under close medical supervision to mitigate these risks.

Additional Warnings for Specific Patient Groups

Atenolol may pose additional risks for certain patient populations:

1. Asthma/COPD patients: Higher doses of atenolol can exacerbate these conditions by narrowing breathing passages.
2. Diabetic patients: Atenolol may mask important signs of hypoglycemia, such as increased heart rate and tremors.
3. Patients with poor circulation: Atenolol can potentially worsen symptoms in hands and feet due to its blood pressure-lowering effects.

Atenolol Interactions with Other Medications

Atenolol can interact with various other medications, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Understanding these interactions is crucial for safe medication management.

Which Medications Can Interact with Atenolol?

Some common medications that may interact with atenolol include:

• Other blood pressure medications
• Certain heart medications (e.g., digoxin)
• Diabetes medications
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Calcium channel blockers

It’s essential to inform healthcare providers about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to prevent potential interactions.

Proper Usage and Dosage of Atenolol

Adhering to the prescribed dosage and administration instructions is crucial for maximizing the benefits of atenolol while minimizing potential side effects.

How Should Atenolol Be Taken?

Atenolol is typically taken orally once daily, with or without food. The dosage may vary based on the individual’s condition and response to treatment. Common starting doses include:

• For hypertension: 50mg once daily, which may be increased to 100mg if necessary
• For angina: 50mg to 100mg once daily
• Post-heart attack: 50mg to 100mg once daily

It’s important to take atenolol at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels of the medication.

Monitoring and Managing Atenolol Treatment

Regular monitoring is essential for patients taking atenolol to ensure the medication is working effectively and to catch any potential issues early.

What Should Be Monitored During Atenolol Treatment?

Healthcare providers typically monitor:

• Blood pressure and heart rate
• Kidney function
• Blood sugar levels in diabetic patients
• Signs of depression or mood changes
• Circulation in extremities

Patients should report any new or worsening symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly.

Long-Term Considerations for Atenolol Use

While atenolol can be an effective long-term treatment for hypertension and heart conditions, patients should be aware of potential long-term effects and considerations.

Are There Any Long-Term Risks Associated with Atenolol Use?

Long-term use of atenolol may be associated with:

• Decreased exercise tolerance in some patients
• Potential masking of hyperthyroidism symptoms
• Slight increase in triglyceride levels and decrease in HDL cholesterol
• Possible impact on glucose metabolism in diabetic patients

Regular check-ups and open communication with healthcare providers can help manage these potential long-term effects.

In conclusion, atenolol is a powerful medication that can significantly improve cardiovascular health when used appropriately. Understanding its effects, potential side effects, and proper usage is crucial for patients to derive maximum benefit from this treatment. As with any medication, individualized care and regular medical supervision are key to ensuring safe and effective use of atenolol.

Side Effects, Dosage, Uses, and More

Highlights for atenolol

1. Atenolol oral tablet is available as a brand-name drug and a generic drug. Brand name: Tenormin.
2. Atenolol comes only as a tablet you take by mouth.
3. Atenolol is used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain. It can also help prevent heart attack or heart damage after a heart attack.

This drug has a boxed warning. These are the most serious warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Boxed warnings alert doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.

• Don’t stop taking atenolol suddenly. If you do, you may experience worse chest pain, a jump in blood pressure, or even have a heart attack. Stopping atenolol is not recommended. If you need to stop taking the drug, first talk to your doctor. Your dosage should be gradually decreased under your doctor’s supervision.

Other warnings

• Asthma/chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) warning: At higher doses, atenolol can make asthma or COPD worse. It does this by blocking different types of beta receptors found in breathing passages. Blocking these receptors can lead to narrowing of breathing passages, which can worsen these conditions.
• Diabetes warning: Atenolol may mask important signs of low blood sugar, including shaking and increased heart rate. Without these signals, it becomes more difficult to recognize dangerously low blood sugar levels.
• Poor circulation warning: If you have poor circulation in your feet and hands, you may have worse symptoms when taking atenolol. Atenolol reduces blood pressure, so you might not get as much blood to your hands and feet.

Atenolol is a prescription drug. It comes as a tablet you take by mouth.

Atenolol is available as the brand-name drug Tenormin. It’s also available as a generic drug. Generic drugs usually cost less than the brand-name version. In some cases, they may not be available in every strength or form as the brand-name drug.

Why it’s used

Atenolol is used to:

• decrease hypertension (high blood pressure)
• reduce angina (chest pain)
• after a heart attack, reduce the amount of work your heart muscle has to do to push blood through your body

How it works

Atenolol belongs to a class of drugs called beta blockers. A class of drugs is a group of medications that work in a similar way. These drugs are often used to treat similar conditions.

Beta receptors are found on cells in the heart. When adrenaline activates a beta receptor, blood pressure and heart rate go up. Beta blockers prevent adrenaline from affecting beta receptors in your blood vessels and heart. This causes blood vessels to relax. By relaxing the vessels, beta blockers help to lower blood pressure and reduce chest pain. They also help to decrease the heart’s demand for oxygen.

Beta blockers don’t permanently change blood pressure and chest pain. Instead, they help to manage the symptoms.

Atenolol may cause drowsiness. It can also cause other side effects.

More common side effects

The more common side effects of atenolol can include:

• cold hands and feet
• constipation
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• headache
• reduced sex drive or impotence
• shortness of breath
• unexplained tiredness
• leg pain
• blood pressure that’s lower than usual

If these effects are mild, they may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. If they’re more severe or don’t go away, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Serious side effects

Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 if your symptoms feel life-threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency. Serious side effects and their symptoms can include the following:

• Allergic reaction. Symptoms can include:
  • a large, red rash
  • fever
  • swelling of the hands, feet, and ankles
  • swelling of your throat or tongue
  • trouble breathing
• Depression. Symptoms can include:
  • feelings of sadness or hopelessness
  • anxiety
  • tiredness
  • trouble focusing
• Unusual weight gain. Symptoms can include:
  • swelling of the feet, ankles, or arms

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we can not guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss possible side effects with a healthcare provider who knows your medical history.

Atenolol oral tablet can interact with other medications, vitamins, or herbs you may be taking. An interaction is when a substance changes the way a drug works. This can be harmful or prevent the drug from working well.

To help avoid interactions, your doctor should manage all of your medications carefully. Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, or herbs you’re taking. To find out how this drug might interact with something else you’re taking, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Examples of drugs that can cause interactions with atenolol are listed below.

Mental health drugs

Reserpine and monamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) may increase or add to the effects of atenolol. They may also increase lightheadedness or slow your heart rate more.

MAOIs can continue to interact with atenolol for up to 14 days after taking them. Examples of MAOIs include:

• isocarboxazid
• phenelzine
• selegiline
• tranylcypromine

Heart rhythm drugs

Taking certain heart drugs with atenolol can slow down your heart rate too much. Examples of these drugs include:

• digitalis
• amiodarone
• disopyramide

Calcium channel blockers

Like atenolol, these drugs are used to treat high blood pressure and several other heart problems. If combined with atenolol, they may reduce the contractions of your heart and slow it down more. Doctors sometimes use this combination under close supervision. Examples of these drugs include:

• amlodipine
• diltiazem
• felodipine
• isradipine
• nicardipine
• nifedipine
• nimodipine
• nisoldipine
• verapamil

Alpha blockers

Alpha blockers lower blood pressure. They may decrease blood pressure too much when combined with atenolol. Examples of these drugs include:

• methyldopa
• prazosin
• clonidine

Clonidine must be carefully managed if it’s combined with atenolol. Suddenly stopping the drug while also taking atenolol can cause a big jump in blood pressure.

Pain drug

Taking indomethacin with atenolol can reduce the blood pressure-lowering effects of atenolol.

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs interact differently in each person, we can not guarantee that this information includes all possible interactions. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare provider about possible interactions with all prescription drugs, vitamins, herbs and supplements, and over-the-counter drugs that you are taking.

This drug comes with several warnings.

Allergy warning

Atenolol can cause a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms can include:

• a large, red rash
• fever
• swelling of the hands, feet, and ankles
• swelling of your throat or tongue
• trouble breathing

If you develop these symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Don’t take this drug again if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to it. Taking it again could be fatal (cause death).

Warnings for people with certain health conditions

For people with asthma/chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Generally, people with asthma or COPD shouldn’t take atenolol. A doctor may still prescribe it, but only in small doses with careful monitoring. Atenolol works to block beta receptors on cells in the heart. But at higher doses, atenolol can block different types of beta receptors found in breathing passages. Blocking these receptors can lead to narrowing of breathing passages, making asthma or COPD worse.

For people with diabetes: Atenolol may mask important signs of low blood sugar, including shaking and increased heart rate. Without these signals, it becomes more difficult to recognize dangerously low blood sugar levels.

For people with poor circulation: If you have poor circulation in your feet and hands, you may have worse symptoms when taking atenolol. Atenolol reduces blood pressure, so you might not get as much blood to your hands and feet.

For people with an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism): Atenolol may mask important signs of an overactive thyroid, including a fast heartbeat. If you stop taking this drug suddenly, it may get worse and could be life threatening. Don’t stop taking atenolol without talking to your doctor.

Warnings for other groups

For pregnant women: Atenolol is a category D pregnancy drug. That means two things:

1. Studies show a risk of adverse effects to the fetus when the mother takes the drug.
2. The benefits of taking atenolol during pregnancy may outweigh the potential risks in certain cases.

Atenolol use in the second trimester of pregnancy has been associated with birth of babies who are smaller than normal. Also, newborns of mothers who took atenolol at the time of birth may be at risk of hypoglycemia (lower than normal blood sugar levels) and bradycardia (slower than normal heartbeat).

If you take atenolol and are considering having a baby, or if you are pregnant, talk to your doctor right away. Atenolol is not the only medication that treats high blood pressure. Other drugs have fewer adverse effects during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Your doctor will be able to tell you if a different drug or a dose adjustment is an option for you.

If you become pregnant while taking this drug, call your doctor right away.

For women who are breastfeeding: Atenolol is absorbed into breast milk and could be passed to a child who is breastfed. Newborns who breastfeed from mothers who take atenolol are also at risk of hypoglycemia and bradycardia.

All possible dosages and drug forms may not be included here. Your dosage, drug form, and how often you take the drug will depend on:

• your age
• the condition being treated
• how severe your condition is
• other medical conditions you have
• how you react to the first dose

Drug form and strengths

Generic: Atenolol

• Form: oral tablet
• Strengths: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg

Brand: Tenormin

• Form: oral tablet
• Strengths: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg

Dosage for high blood pressure

Adult dosage (ages 18–64 years)

Atenolol is often started at 50 mg once a day. It’s gradually adjusted if needed.

Child dosage (ages 0–17 years)

This medication has not been studied in children. It should not be used in children under the age of 18 years.

Senior dosage (ages 65 years and older)

There are no specific recommendations for senior dosing. Older adults may process drugs more slowly. A typical adult dosage may cause levels of the drug to be higher than normal in your body. If you’re a senior, you may need a lower dosage or you may need a different dosing schedule.

Dosage for angina (chest pain)

Adult dosage (ages 18–64 years)

Atenolol is often started at 50 mg once a day. It’s gradually adjusted if needed.

Child dosage (ages 0–17 years)

This medication has not been studied in children. It should not be used in children under the age of 18 years.

Senior dosage (ages 65 years and older)

There are no specific recommendations for senior dosing. Older adults may process drugs more slowly. A typical adult dosage may cause levels of the drug to be higher than normal in your body. If you’re a senior, you may need a lower dosage or you may need a different dosing schedule.

Dosage after a heart attack

Adult dosage (ages 18–64 years)

When this drug is used after a heart attack, the dosage is highly individualized. It depends on the cause and the effects of the heart attack. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure and how your heart is responding, and may adjust your dosage. This drug is often started in the hospital.

Atenolol is often dosed at 100 mg per day, given once a day or in two divided doses. The dosage is gradually adjusted if needed.

Child dosage (ages 0–17 years)

This medication has not been studied in children. It should not be used in children under the age of 18 years.

Senior dosage (ages 65 years and older)

There are no specific recommendations for senior dosing. Older adults may process drugs more slowly. A typical adult dosage may cause levels of the drug to be higher than normal in your body. If you’re a senior, you may need a lower dosage or you may need a different dosing schedule.

Special dosage considerations

For seniors: Seniors may need a smaller dosage of atenolol at first because they can be more sensitive to the way medications act in their body. Also, as people age, they sometimes have a harder time clearing drugs from their body. After a low initial dosage, their dosage may then increase gradually.

For people with kidney disease: Kidney disease can make it more difficult for you to clear this drug from your body. Having kidney disease may affect your dosage. Talk to your doctor about the best dosage for you.

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we can not guarantee that this list includes all possible dosages. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak with your doctor or pharmacist about dosages that are right for you.

Atenolol oral tablet is used for long-term treatment. It comes with serious risks if you don’t take it as prescribed.

If you don’t take It: If you have high blood pressure or chest pain and don’t take your atenolol, you risk: increasing your blood pressure, damaging your blood vessels or main organs, such as your lungs, heart, or liver, and increasing your risk of a heart attack.

If you stop taking it suddenly: If you suddenly stop taking atenolol for high blood pressure, chest pain, or after a heart attack, you raise your risk of heart attack.

If you don’t take it on schedule: Not taking atenolol every day, skipping days, or taking doses at different times of day also come with risks. Your blood pressure might fluctuate too often. That might increase your risk for a heart attack.

If you miss a dose: If you miss a dose, just take the next dose as planned. Don’t double your dose.

How to tell if the drug is working: You can tell that atenolol is working if it lowers your blood pressure. If you’re taking it for angina, you can tell it’s working if it reduces your chest pain.

Keep these considerations in mind if your doctor prescribes atenolol for you.

General

You can cut or crush the tablet.

Storage

• Store this drug at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
• Keep the medication tightly closed and in a light-resistant container. Store it away from moisture.
• Don’t store this medication in moist or damp areas, such as bathrooms.

Self-monitoring

Because atenolol can lower blood pressure, your doctor may ask that you periodically check your blood pressure while taking it. Let your doctor know if you experience blood pressure readings that are either too high or too low while taking atenolol.

Refills

A prescription for this medication is refillable. You should not need a new prescription for this medication to be refilled. Your doctor will write the number of refills authorized on your prescription.

Travel

When traveling with your medication:

• Always carry your medication with you. When flying, never put it into a checked bag. Keep it in your carry-on bag.
• Don’t worry about airport x-ray machines. They can’t harm your medication.
• You may need to show airport staff the pharmacy label for your medication. Always carry the original prescription-labeled container with you.
• Don’t put this medication in your car’s glove compartment or leave it in the car. Be sure to avoid doing this when the weather is very hot or very cold.

There are other drugs available to treat your condition. Some may be more suitable for you than others. Talk to your doctor about possible alternatives.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up-to-date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or other healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained here in is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

Atenolol side effects and how to avoid them

Common atenolol side effects | Serious side effects | Bradycardia | Leg pain | Nausea | Diarrhea | Side effects timeline | Contraindications | Warnings | Interactions | How to avoid side effects | How to treat side effects

Atenolol is a generic drug prescribed to treat high blood pressure, chest pain (angina pectoris), or to increase the chances of survival following a heart attack (myocardial infarction). Some people are prescribed atenolol off-label for atrial fibrillation, fast heartbeats, migraines, tremor, or alcohol withdrawal. Also prescribed as brand-name Tenormin, atenolol is a cardioselective beta blocker and available as combination product with a diuretic, meaning, it not only widens blood vessels like other beta blockers, but it also has strong effects on the heart in slowing down the rate of heartbeats. Like similar beta blockers, atenolol has many side effects. Many of them are related to blood pressure and the heart.

RELATED: What is atenolol?

Common side effects of atenolol

The most likely side effects of atenolol depend on the medical condition being treated. People taking atenolol for heart conditions are more likely to experience serious side effects.

In order of incidence, the most common side effects for people taking atenolol for hypertension are:

• Tiredness
• Dizziness
• Cold fingers, toes, hands, and feet
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Feeling faint when standing up

For people given atenolol following a heart attack, the most common side effects are serious side effects. Keep in mind, however, that people who have had a heart attack are at risk for serious heart problems, including death, in the days and weeks following a heart attack. Atenolol combined with conventional treatment lowers the risk of most of these serious problems including size of infarct, irregular heartbeats, heart failure, a secondary heart attack, and death. People may still experience these problems, but they are not side effects of atenolol. They are consequences of a heart attack. However, atenolol does increase the risk for some serious problems. In order of likelihood, the most common side effects of atenolol treatment following a heart attack are:

• Low blood pressure 
• Slow heart rate 

Serious side effects of atenolol

Again, the likelihood of serious side effects due to atenolol will be based on the medical condition being treated or whether atenolol is taken orally or injected. People with serious heart problems are more likely to experience cardiovascular problems than people given atenolol for blood pressure, migraines, or tremor. The most serious side effects of atenolol are:

• Heart block
• Pulmonary embolism
• Airway closure (bronchospasm)
• Kidney failure
• Severe allergic reactions

People taking atenolol for chest pain due to coronary artery disease are at risk for serious side effects such as worsened angina, occurrence of a heart attack, or irregular heartbeats if atenolol is stopped suddenly.

Bradycardia

Slowing the heart and reducing the strength of individual heartbeats are the intended effects of atenolol treatment. Both effects reduce blood pressure and the incidence of chest pain. They also reduce how much work the heart has to do, a benefit for people who have just had a heart attack. These effects can also help improve irregular heartbeats. However, sometimes a slow heartbeat can be a problem. If it’s too slow, the heart will not be pumping enough blood and oxygen to the body. If the heart rate seems too slow, then talk to the prescribing healthcare provider. If symptoms are experienced, then immediate medical care is required.

Leg pain

Leg pain is not a commonly-experienced side effect of atenolol. In combined U.S. and foreign trials, approximately 3% of participants complained of leg pain or leg cramps, but as of yet, there is no explanation for why. If leg pain is debilitating or doesn’t go away, then ask the prescriber for medical advice.

Nausea

Approximately 3% to 4% of participants in atenolol clinical trials reported nausea, a common side effect of most oral drugs. While nausea is generally a temporary and mild side effect, talk to the prescribing doctor if it’s severe, accompanied by persistent vomiting, or interferes significantly with daily life.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is not commonly experienced in people using atenolol. In clinical trials, the incidence was between 2% and 3%. For most people taking atenolol, diarrhea will be mild and temporary. It should be reported to the healthcare provider if diarrhea is watery, bloody, or doesn’t go away.

How soon do atenolol side effects start?

Atenolol begins working on slowing the heart within an hour of the first dose, so some side effects such as slow heart rate and low blood pressure may be experienced within an hour or two of taking the first dose. Most of the common side effects generally occur early in treatment. These include dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea. Some of the more serious side effects are delayed side effects, requiring several weeks or months of treatment to become obvious. 

How long do atenolol side effects last?

Mild side effects of atenolol may improve over time, but any effects involving slow heartbeats or blood pressure may require lower doses to improve. Any side effects that don’t get better over time will usually improve when the drug is stopped. With a half-life of six to seven hours, atenolol is pretty much cleared from the body in a day.

What are the long-term side effects of atenolol?

For some conditions, atenolol is meant to be taken daily for months or years. There are no side effects specifically caused by long-term use. 

Atenolol contraindications

Because atenolol slows the heart, it is never prescribed to people with:

• Slow heartbeat due to a problem with the heart’s natural “pacemaker” (sinus bradycardia)
• Moderate to serious heart block
• Congestive heart failure
• A heart that doesn’t pump enough blood or oxygen to the body (cardiogenic shock)

Atenolol is also contraindicated in any person allergic to the drug.

Pregnancy

Atenolol should be avoided during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters. Atenolol does cross the placenta and could cause birth defects or low birth weight.

Breastfeeding

Atenolol is not recommended for nursing mothers. The drug is present in human breast milk and could cause low blood pressure or slow heartbeats in the nursing infant. 

Children

The FDA has not approved atenolol for use in children or adolescents. Healthcare providers, though, may prescribe atenolol for children with high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats (supraventricular arrhythmias), or heart problems associated with Marfan syndrome.

Seniors

Atenolol is prescribed to people older than 65, but there may be issues. In general, people of advanced age do not eliminate the drug as quickly from the body as younger adults, so side effects are a greater risk. Older adults are also more likely to have conditions that may be worsened by beta blocker treatment. Healthcare providers will usually start doses as low as possible when treating seniors.

Atenolol warnings

Like all beta blockers, atenolol’s effects on blood pressure and the heart do have risks, so some situations require caution or monitoring.

Black box warning

Atenolol is packaged with an FDA black box warning that abrupt discontinuation of the drug in people taking atenolol for chest paincan worsen angina or produce irregular heartbeats.

Cautions

Some pre-existing conditions can be worsened by atenolol, so extra monitoring or dose reductions may be required.

• Cardiovascular problems: Heart failure, coronary artery disease, heart block, or irregular heartbeats may be worsened by atenolol
• Peripheral vascular disease: Problems with peripheral blood vessels such as the Raynaud phenomenon could also be worsened by atenolol
• Diabetes: Atenolol can cause diabetes or worsen poorly controlled diabetes. Additionally, it may mask signs of low blood sugar.
• Thyroid problems: Atenolol can mask symptoms of hyperthyroidism or thyroid disease
• Asthma, emphysema, or bronchitis: Atenolol can cause bronchospasm, or airway closure, as a side effect.
• Adrenal gland tumor: Atenolol can cause high blood pressure in people diagnosed with pheochromocytoma.
• Kidney disease: People with reduced kidney function may require dose reductions to prevent side effects.
• Surgery: General anesthesia and surgery are riskier in people taking beta blockers.

Abuse and dependence

Atenolol is not associated with drug abuse, dependency, or withdrawal. However, people taking atenolol for chest pain will usually be prescribed a tapering dose when the drug is discontinued to prevent worsened chest pain or irregular heartbeats.

Overdose

An overdose of atenolol can cause serious problems or death, so seek out medical treatment if too much atenolol is taken. Symptoms of an overdose include lethargy, slow breathing, slowed heart rate, low blood pressure, and wheezing. The maximum approved dosage is 200 mg per day for chest pain and 100 mg daily for all other approved conditions. Even so, never exceed the prescribed dose.

Atenolol interactions

Atenolol can be affected by other drugs or worsen the side effects of other drugs. One drug, the antidepressant Marplan (isocarboxazid), is never prescribed with blood pressure drugs.

The most concerning drug interactions affect heart rate, heart rhythm, or blood pressure. Drugs that cause these problems when combined with atenolol may require dose adjustments or extra monitoring. These include: 

• Other beta blockers 
• Other blood pressure drugs (such as clonidine) 
• Calcium channel blockers 
• Antiarrhythmics (heart rate and heart rhythm medications such as verapamil)
• Digitalis medications such as digoxin that treat heart failure and irregular heart rate
• Migraine drugs (ergots)
• Marijuana
• Cocaine

How to avoid atenolol side effects

Most people taking atenolol for high blood pressure experience only minor adverse effects. However, people who take atenolol for heart problems are at risk for more serious side effects. Preventing both mild and serious side effects is possible if a few pieces of advice are followed.

1. Tell the healthcare provider about all medical conditions

The first rule for preventing both mild and serious side effects is to make sure that the prescribing healthcare provider knows about all medical conditions both past and present. In particular, tell the prescribing healthcare provider about:

• Heart disease
• Peripheral vascular disease
• Asthma or COPD
• Diabetes
• Thyroid problems, particularly overactive thyroid
• Pheochromocytoma, a type of adrenal gland cancer
• Kidney disease
• Any upcoming major surgery
• Pregnancy or any plans to become pregnant
• Breastfeeding or plans to breastfeed

2.

Tell the prescriber about all medications being taken

The second most effective way to prevent both mild and serious side effects is to make sure both the prescriber and the pharmacist know about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements being used. This way, they can spot possible drug interactions before there’s a problem. The most important are:

• Blood pressure drugs, especially beta blockers or calcium channel blockers
• Heart rhythm drugs
• Migraine drugs

3. Take atenolol as instructed

Taking too much atenolol will make side effects more likely. The way to do that is to take each dose as scheduled exactly as instructed. If a dose is missed, then it can be taken when remembered. Taking it too close to the next dose, however, is like taking a double dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and take the next dose on time.

4. Stand up and move slowly

Minimize dizziness and lightheadedness by standing or sitting up slowly and moving carefully. This is especially valuable if lightheadedness happens whenever you sit up or stand.

5. Go easy on alcohol

Alcohol can worsen low blood pressure, dizziness, or drowsiness when added to atenolol.

6. Avoid caffeine

To prevent or minimize cold hands and feet, go easy on caffeinated drinks. Caffeine can restrict blood flow. It’s also a good idea not to wear tight watches or bracelets.

How to treat side effects of atenolol

Atenolol’s side effects can’t always be avoided but they can be managed. Some, though, will require the help of healthcare professionals.

Cold hands or feet

Run warm water over your fingers, hands, or feet to warm them up. Wear warm gloves, mittens, or socks.

Drowsiness or dizziness

Lie or sit down and rest. The primary goal is to avoid falls, accidents, or other injuries.

Low blood pressure

If blood pressure falls far enough to be a problem, you will experience symptoms. Call a healthcare professional if any of these symptoms occur:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Confusion
• Feeling faint or fainting
• Weakness
• Tiredness
• Blurred vision

Slow heartbeats

Tell the healthcare provider if the heart is beating slowly (less than 60 beats per minute) but there are no symptoms. Get medical help, however, if there are symptoms of a slowed heart including:

• Lethargy
• Heart palpitations
• Severe dizziness or lightheadedness
• Confusion
• Weakness
• Chest pain

Sources

• Atenolol, Epocrates
• Atenolol drug summary, Prescriber’s Digital Reference
• Atenolol tablet prescribing information, U.S. National Library of Medicine
• Marplan prescribing information, U.S. National Library of Medicine

Atenolol: instruction, price, analogues | Monfarm tablets

• Pharmacological properties
• Indications Atenolol
• Application of Atenolol
• Contraindications
• Side effects
• Storage conditions
• Diagnosis
• Recommended alternatives
• Trade names

atenolol (4-(2-hydroxy-3-isopropylaminopropoxy)phenylacetamide) belongs to the group of antiadrenergic drugs. It has a cardioselective b1 – adrenoblocking effect. It has a pronounced antianginal, hypotensive and antiarrhythmic effects. Reduces the automatism of the sinus node, heart rate, slows down AV conduction, reduces myocardial contractility and its need for oxygen. When used in medium therapeutic doses, it does not cause side effects characteristic of non-selective b-adrenoreceptor blockers (bronchospasm, heart failure, etc.).

Atenolol is slowly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The maximum concentration of the drug in the blood serum is reached 2-4 hours after ingestion. The elimination half-life after oral administration is 6-9 hours; in patients with renal insufficiency may be longer. To a small extent (less than 10%) undergoes biotransformation in the liver.

treatment of hypertension, angina pectoris, sinus tachycardia, for the prevention of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias. The drug of choice for prescribing to patients with a tendency to bronchospasm and spasm of peripheral vessels (the degree of risk is much lower than when using non-selective blockers of b-adrenergic receptors).

by mouth before meals. Tablets are swallowed without chewing, washing down with a small amount of water. The dosing regimen is set individually.

In hypertension, the initial dose is 50 mg once a day. In case of insufficient severity of the hypotensive effect, the dose is gradually increased to 200 mg / day. With angina pectoris and cardiac arrhythmias, atenolol is prescribed in an initial dose of 50 mg 1 time per day; with insufficient severity of the effect, the dose is increased to 100-150 mg / day. The maximum daily dose is 200 mg.

If the renal excretory function is impaired, dose adjustment is necessary: ​​with creatinine clearance below 35 ml / min, the dose of atenolol should be reduced by 50%, with clearance below 15 ml / min – by 75%.

Discontinuation of atenolol, as with other b-adrenergic blockers, should be gradual, as abrupt discontinuation of the drug may exacerbate anginal syndrome and myocardial ischemia in patients with coronary artery disease and reduce exercise tolerance.

absolute contraindications are II-III degree AV blockade, sinoauricular blockade, severe bradycardia (heart rate less than 50 per minute), acute and chronic heart failure, metabolic acidosis, BA.

Relative contraindications are peripheral circulatory disorders, Raynaud’s syndrome, pregnancy, diabetes mellitus (atenolol may exacerbate or mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia).

at the beginning of the course of treatment, headache, depression, excessive sweating, sleep disturbance, nausea, diarrhea, itching, feeling of cold extremities are possible. In some cases, there may be disturbances in AV conduction, symptoms of heart failure, severe bradycardia, symptomatic hypotension, hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus, conjunctivitis.

in a dry, dark place.

Atenolol: instruction, price, analogues | Monfarm tablets

• Pharmacological properties
• Indications Atenolol
• Application of Atenolol
• Contraindications
• Side effects
• Storage conditions
• Diagnosis
• Recommended alternatives
• Trade names

atenolol (4-(2-hydroxy-3-isopropylaminopropoxy)phenylacetamide) belongs to the group of antiadrenergic drugs. It has a cardioselective b1 – adrenoblocking effect. It has a pronounced antianginal, hypotensive and antiarrhythmic effects. Reduces the automatism of the sinus node, heart rate, slows down AV conduction, reduces myocardial contractility and its need for oxygen. When used in medium therapeutic doses, it does not cause side effects characteristic of non-selective b-adrenoreceptor blockers (bronchospasm, heart failure, etc.).

Atenolol is slowly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The maximum concentration of the drug in the blood serum is reached 2-4 hours after ingestion. The elimination half-life after oral administration is 6-9 hours; in patients with renal insufficiency may be longer. To a small extent (less than 10%) undergoes biotransformation in the liver.

treatment of hypertension, angina pectoris, sinus tachycardia, for the prevention of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias. The drug of choice for prescribing to patients with a tendency to bronchospasm and spasm of peripheral vessels (the degree of risk is much lower than when using non-selective blockers of b-adrenergic receptors).

by mouth before meals. Tablets are swallowed without chewing, washing down with a small amount of water. The dosing regimen is set individually.

In hypertension, the initial dose is 50 mg once a day. In case of insufficient severity of the hypotensive effect, the dose is gradually increased to 200 mg / day. With angina pectoris and cardiac arrhythmias, atenolol is prescribed in an initial dose of 50 mg 1 time per day; with insufficient severity of the effect, the dose is increased to 100-150 mg / day. The maximum daily dose is 200 mg.

If the renal excretory function is impaired, dose adjustment is necessary: ​​with creatinine clearance below 35 ml / min, the dose of atenolol should be reduced by 50%, with clearance below 15 ml / min – by 75%.

Discontinuation of atenolol, as with other b-adrenergic blockers, should be gradual, as abrupt discontinuation of the drug may exacerbate anginal syndrome and myocardial ischemia in patients with coronary artery disease and reduce exercise tolerance.