Amlodipine + Atenolol

Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for Amlodipine and Atenolol

Hypertension, Supraventricular Tachycardia ... show more

Advisory

  • This medicine contains a combination of 2 drugs Amlodipine and Atenolol.
  • Amlodipine and Atenolol are both used to treat the same disease or symptom but work in different ways in the body.
  • Most doctors will advise making sure that each individual medicine is safe and effective before using a combination form.

Drug Status

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Government Approvals

None

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WHO Essential Medicine

NO

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Known Teratogen

Possible

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Pharmaceutical Class

Beta-Adrenergic Blocker and Calcium Channel Blocker and Dihydropyridine Calcium Channel Blocker

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Controlled Drug Substance

NO

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Summary

  • Amlodipine and Atenolol are used to manage high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, and angina, which is chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. Amlodipine is also used for coronary artery disease, a condition that reduces blood flow to the heart. Atenolol is used to improve survival after a heart attack and manage certain heart rhythm disorders called arrhythmias.

  • Amlodipine works by blocking calcium channels in blood vessels. This causes the vessels to relax and widen, which lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart's workload. Atenolol is a beta-blocker that works by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart. This slows the heart rate and reduces the force of heart contractions, which also lowers blood pressure and decreases the heart's demand for oxygen.

  • Amlodipine is typically taken in doses of 5-10 mg once daily, and Atenolol is usually taken in doses of 50-100 mg once daily. Both medications are taken orally, which means they are swallowed as a pill or capsule.

  • Common side effects of Amlodipine include swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, dizziness, and flushing. Atenolol may cause dizziness, tiredness, and depression. Both medications can cause nausea and stomach pain. Serious side effects for both include more frequent or severe chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, and fainting.

  • Amlodipine should be used cautiously in patients with severe aortic stenosis or liver impairment. Atenolol is not recommended for patients with severe slow heart rate, heart block greater than first degree, and overt heart failure. Both medications should not be stopped abruptly as this can worsen angina or lead to heart attacks. Patients with asthma or other bronchospastic diseases should use Atenolol with caution.

Indications and Purpose

What is combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol used for?

Amlodipine and atenolol are indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) and angina pectoris. Amlodipine is also used for coronary artery disease, while atenolol is used to improve survival after a heart attack and manage certain arrhythmias. Both medications help reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes by improving blood flow and reducing the heart's workload.

How does combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol work?

Amlodipine works by blocking calcium channels in the blood vessels, leading to relaxation and dilation of the vessels, which lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart's workload. Atenolol, a beta-blocker, works by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart, slowing the heart rate and reducing the force of contraction, which also lowers blood pressure and decreases oxygen demand. Both medications improve blood flow and are used to manage cardiovascular conditions, but they act through different mechanisms to achieve similar therapeutic outcomes.

How effective is combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol?

Clinical trials and studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of both amlodipine and atenolol in managing high blood pressure and angina. Amlodipine has been shown to reduce blood pressure and improve symptoms of angina by relaxing blood vessels. Atenolol has been proven to lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and improve survival rates after heart attacks. Both medications have been widely studied and are considered effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, by improving blood flow and reducing the heart's workload.

How does one know if combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol is working?

The benefits of amlodipine and atenolol are primarily assessed by monitoring blood pressure levels and the frequency and severity of angina attacks. Regular blood pressure checks help determine the effectiveness of the treatment in controlling hypertension. For angina, a reduction in chest pain episodes and improved exercise tolerance are indicators of benefit. Both medications aim to improve cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes, which can be evaluated through regular medical check-ups and patient-reported outcomes.

Directions for Use

What is the usual dose of combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol?

The usual adult daily dose for amlodipine is 5 mg to 10 mg once daily, depending on the condition being treated and the patient's response. For atenolol, the typical dose is 50 mg to 100 mg once daily for hypertension and angina, with adjustments based on the patient's needs and response. Both medications are taken orally and can be used alone or in combination with other treatments to manage high blood pressure and angina. It's important to follow the prescribed dosage and consult a doctor for any adjustments.

How does one take combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol?

Amlodipine can be taken with or without food, and it's best to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. Atenolol is also taken once daily, with or without food, but should be taken at the same time each day. There are no specific food restrictions for either medication, but it's important to follow a healthy diet low in salt and fat to support blood pressure management. Patients should consult their doctor for personalized dietary advice and any potential interactions with other medications or supplements.

For how long is combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol taken?

Amlodipine and atenolol are typically used as long-term treatments for managing high blood pressure and angina. Both medications are intended for continuous use to maintain their therapeutic effects, as they do not cure these conditions but help control symptoms and prevent complications. It's important to take them regularly as prescribed and not to stop abruptly without consulting a healthcare provider, as this could lead to adverse effects.

How long does it take for combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol to work?

Amlodipine typically starts working within a few hours, but it may take a week or two to feel the full effects. Atenolol, on the other hand, may take 1-2 weeks before you feel its full benefits. Both medications are used to manage high blood pressure and angina, and their effects are gradual, requiring consistent use to achieve optimal results. While amlodipine works by relaxing blood vessels, atenolol slows the heart rate, both contributing to improved blood flow and reduced blood pressure.

How does one store combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol?

Amlodipine and atenolol do not require refrigeration. Both medications should be stored at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture, and kept in their original containers with the lids tightly closed. It's important to keep them out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion. Proper storage ensures the medications maintain their effectiveness and safety.

Warnings and Precautions

Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol?

Common side effects of amlodipine include swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, dizziness, and flushing. Atenolol may cause dizziness, tiredness, and depression. Both medications can cause nausea and stomach pain. Serious side effects for both include more frequent or severe chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, and fainting. It's important to report any severe or persistent side effects to a healthcare provider. Both medications require monitoring for potential adverse effects, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions.

Can I take combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol with other prescription drugs?

Amlodipine can interact with other blood pressure medications, increasing the risk of low blood pressure. Atenolol may interact with other beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiarrhythmic drugs, potentially leading to excessive slowing of the heart rate or low blood pressure. Both medications can interact with drugs that affect liver enzymes, altering their effectiveness. It's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions and ensure safe and effective treatment.

Can I take combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol with vitamins or supplements?

While specific interactions with vitamins or supplements are not detailed for amlodipine and atenolol, it's important to inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you are taking. This includes vitamins, minerals, and herbal products, as they may affect how these medications work or increase the risk of side effects. For instance, supplements that affect blood pressure or heart rate could potentially interact with these medications. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

Can I take combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol if I am pregnant?

Amlodipine has not shown adverse developmental effects in animal studies, but its safety in human pregnancy is not well established. Atenolol can cause fetal harm, including intrauterine growth restriction, when administered during pregnancy. Both medications should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider to carefully weigh the risks and benefits before using these medications.

Can I take combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol while breastfeeding?

Amlodipine is present in human milk, but no adverse effects on breastfed infants have been observed. Atenolol is also excreted in breast milk and may cause bradycardia in breastfed infants, especially in premature infants or those with impaired renal function. Caution is advised when administering these medications to breastfeeding mothers. It's important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider to ensure the safety of both the mother and the infant.

Who should avoid taking combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol?

Amlodipine should be used cautiously in patients with severe aortic stenosis or liver impairment. Atenolol is contraindicated in patients with severe bradycardia, heart block greater than first degree, and overt cardiac failure. Both medications should not be stopped abruptly, as this can worsen angina or lead to heart attacks. Patients with asthma or other bronchospastic diseases should use atenolol with caution. It's important to inform healthcare providers of all medical conditions and medications to avoid potential complications.