Atenolol

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Adco-Atenolol, Ten-bloka, Tenormin

Popular combinations:

Tenchlor, Tenoretic

Drug type:

Cardioselective beta blocker

Prescription needed:

Yes

What does it do?

• Atenolol slows the heart rate and is useful in the treatment of arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms) and angina (chest pain)
• It is used to protect the heart from further damage following a heart attack
• Used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), but not usually first line

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

Total adult dose 25–100mg per day, taken once or twice daily

How quickly will it start to work?

2–4 hours

How long will the effects last?

20–30 hours

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop, your doctor may want to withdraw the drug gradually

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No special problems expected                                 

What are the possible side effects?

Atenolol’s adverse effects tend to diminish with long-term use.

The following have been reported:

• More common: lethargy, fatigue, cold hands and feet
• Less common: nausea, vomiting, nightmares or vivid dreams, rash, dry eyes, and visual disturbances
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: fainting, palpitations, breathlessness, or wheezing

OVERDOSE ACTION

Seek immediate medical advice, especially if breathing difficulties, collapse, or loss of consciousness.

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health conditions: heart/kidney problems, lung disorders such as asthma or bronchitis, diabetes, psoriasis
• Other medicines: other antihypertensive drugs especially calcium channel blockers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), cardiac glycosides (e.g. digoxin), antidiabetic drugs, decongestants
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety unknown, discuss with your doctor
• Children: not recommended
• Over 60: Reduced doses may be necessary, especially if there is impaired kidney function
• Driving and hazardous work: Avoid until you know how atenolol affects you
• Alcohol: Avoid excessive intake, blood pressure may fall
• Surgery and general anaesthetics Occasionally, atenolol may need to be stopped before you have a general anaesthetic