Atenolol

Generic Name: atenolol

beta-Adrenergic Blocker [EPC]Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Atenolol

Atenolol is a synthetic, beta-1 selective (cardioselective) adrenoreceptor blocking agent. Available as 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets for oral administration.

Overview

Atenolol is a synthetic, beta-1 selective (cardioselective) adrenoreceptor blocking agent. Available as 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets for oral administration.

Uses

Indicated for treatment of hypertension to lower blood pressure and reduce risk of cardiovascular events. Also indicated for long-term management of angina pectoris and in management of hemodynamically stable patients with definite or suspected acute myocardial infarction to reduce cardiovascular mortality.

Dosage

Hypertension: Initial dose 50 mg daily, may increase to 100 mg daily. Angina: Initial dose 50 mg daily, may increase to 100-200 mg daily. Elderly or renally impaired patients should start at lower end of dosing range. Maximum 50 mg daily for creatinine clearance 15-35, maximum 25 mg daily for clearance below 15.

Side Effects

Common adverse effects include bradycardia, cold extremities, dizziness, tiredness, fatigue, depression, and nausea. During acute MI treatment: bradycardia (18%), hypotension (25%), heart failure (19%). Post-marketing reports include elevated liver enzymes, hallucinations, impotence, rash, and alopecia.

Interactions

Catecholamine-depleting drugs may have additive effects causing hypotension and bradycardia. Calcium channel blockers may increase bradycardia and heart block risk. Disopyramide associated with severe bradycardia and heart failure. NSAIDs may decrease hypotensive effects. Digitalis glycosides increase bradycardia risk.

Warnings

Do not abruptly discontinue in patients with coronary artery disease; severe angina exacerbation and myocardial infarction have been reported. Beta-blockade can depress myocardium and precipitate cardiac failure. Use cautiously in bronchospastic disease. May mask hypoglycemia symptoms.

Pregnancy

Atenolol can cause fetal harm and crosses the placental barrier. Administration starting in second trimester associated with small-for-gestational-age infants. Neonates exposed at parturition or through breastfeeding at risk for hypoglycemia and bradycardia.

Storage

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Atenolol used for?

Indicated for treatment of hypertension to lower blood pressure and reduce risk of cardiovascular events. Also indicated for long-term management of angina pectoris and in management of hemodynamically stable patients with definite or suspected acute myocardial infarction to reduce cardiovascular mortality.

What are the side effects of Atenolol?

Common adverse effects include bradycardia, cold extremities, dizziness, tiredness, fatigue, depression, and nausea. During acute MI treatment: bradycardia (18%), hypotension (25%), heart failure (19%). Post-marketing reports include elevated liver enzymes, hallucinations, impotence, rash, and alopecia.

Can I take Atenolol during pregnancy?

Atenolol can cause fetal harm and crosses the placental barrier. Administration starting in second trimester associated with small-for-gestational-age infants. Neonates exposed at parturition or through breastfeeding at risk for hypoglycemia and bradycardia.

What are the important warnings for Atenolol?

Do not abruptly discontinue in patients with coronary artery disease; severe angina exacerbation and myocardial infarction have been reported. Beta-blockade can depress myocardium and precipitate cardiac failure. Use cautiously in bronchospastic disease. May mask hypoglycemia symptoms.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.