Atenolol
Supraventricular Tachycardia, Ventricular Tachycardia ... show more
.svg)
DRUG STATUS
Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
Essential Medicine
YES
Teratogenicity
Possible
Pharmaceutical Class
Beta-Adrenergic Blocker
Atenolol
Know More About This Medicine -
Click HereSummary
Atenolol is a medicine used to lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of serious heart problems like strokes and heart attacks. It also helps manage chest pain, known as angina, and can be used after a heart attack to improve survival chances.
Atenolol works by blocking the effects of stress hormones on the heart and blood vessels. This slows the heartbeat and reduces the force of contractions, making the heart work easier. This in turn helps lower blood pressure and manage chest pain.
For most adults, the usual first dose of Atenolol is 50 milligrams once a day. The doctor might increase it to 100 milligrams if needed. Older adults or people with kidney problems may start with a lower dose of 25 milligrams.
Atenolol can make you feel tired, sleepy, dizzy or nauseous. Less common but more serious side effects can affect your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing. It can also cause serious allergic reactions or mental health problems in rare cases.
Atenolol shouldn't be used if you have a slow heartbeat, certain heart blockages, a serious heart problem called cardiogenic shock, severe heart failure, or an allergy to it. Stopping it suddenly can make your heart problems worse or even cause a heart attack. It should also be avoided if you have lung problems like asthma.
Indications and Purpose
What is Atenolol used for?
Atenolol is indicated for the treatment of hypertension, angina pectoris due to coronary atherosclerosis, and in the management of hemodynamically stable patients with acute myocardial infarction to reduce cardiovascular mortality. It is used to lower blood pressure and manage heart-related conditions.
How does Atenolol work?
Atenolol is a beta1-selective beta-blocker that works by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart. This action reduces heart rate, cardiac output, and blood pressure, which decreases the heart's oxygen demand and helps manage conditions like hypertension and angina.
Is Atenolol effective?
Atenolol has been shown to effectively lower blood pressure and manage angina in controlled clinical trials. It reduces cardiovascular mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction. The drug's effectiveness is attributed to its ability to block beta-adrenergic receptors, reducing heart rate and cardiac output.
How does one know if Atenolol is working?
The benefit of Atenolol is evaluated by monitoring blood pressure, heart rate, and symptoms of angina or heart failure. Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are essential to assess the effectiveness and adjust the dosage if necessary. Blood tests may also be conducted to monitor renal function.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Atenolol?
For adults, the usual starting dose of Atenolol for hypertension is 50 mg once daily, which can be increased to 100 mg if needed. For angina, the starting dose is also 50 mg daily, potentially increasing to 100 mg. In acute myocardial infarction, an initial intravenous dose is followed by 50 mg orally every 12 hours. Atenolol is not recommended for children as safety and effectiveness have not been established.
How do I take Atenolol?
Atenolol can be taken with or without food, as food does not significantly affect its absorption. There are no specific food restrictions while taking Atenolol, but it is important to follow a healthcare provider's advice regarding diet and lifestyle changes to manage your condition effectively.
For how long do I take Atenolol?
Atenolol is typically used as a long-term treatment for conditions like hypertension, angina, and after a myocardial infarction. The duration of use depends on the individual's condition and response to the medication. It is important to follow a healthcare provider's guidance and not to stop the medication abruptly without consulting them.
How long does it take for Atenolol to start working?
Atenolol begins to work within one hour of oral administration, with its effects on heart rate and blood pressure becoming apparent. The maximum effect is typically reached within 2 to 4 hours, and the effects can last for at least 24 hours.
How should I store Atenolol?
Atenolol should be stored at room temperature, between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F), with excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F). It should be kept in well-closed, light-resistant containers to maintain its stability and effectiveness.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Atenolol?
Atenolol is contraindicated in patients with sinus bradycardia, heart block greater than first degree, cardiogenic shock, and overt cardiac failure. It should be used cautiously in patients with bronchospastic diseases, diabetes, and those undergoing major surgery. Abrupt discontinuation can exacerbate angina or cause myocardial infarction.
Can I take Atenolol with other prescription drugs?
Atenolol can interact with catecholamine-depleting drugs, calcium channel blockers, disopyramide, amiodarone, and clonidine. These interactions may lead to increased risk of bradycardia, hypotension, or heart failure. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to avoid adverse interactions.
Can I take Atenolol with vitamins or supplements?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Atenolol be taken safely while pregnant?
Atenolol can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women, particularly if used in the second trimester, leading to infants being small for gestational age. It crosses the placental barrier and appears in cord blood. Pregnant women should be informed of the potential risks, and Atenolol should only be used if clearly needed.
Can Atenolol be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Atenolol is excreted in breast milk and may cause bradycardia and hypoglycemia in breastfed infants. Caution is advised when administering Atenolol to nursing mothers. Monitoring the infant for adverse effects is recommended, and healthcare providers should be consulted for personalized advice.
Is Atenolol safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may have higher plasma levels of Atenolol due to decreased clearance. It is recommended to start at the lower end of the dosing range and adjust based on individual response and renal function. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and renal function is advised to ensure safe use in elderly patients.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Atenolol?
Atenolol can reduce exercise-induced tachycardia, which may affect exercise performance. It generally reduces heart rate and cardiac output, which might make intense physical activity more challenging. If you notice significant limitations in your ability to exercise, discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing these effects while maintaining your exercise routine.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Atenolol?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Forms / Brands
