Uses

Atenolol is a selective beta -1 antagonist also known as a beta blocker. This drug works by decreasing the activity of the beta -1 receptors which are found in the heart and smooth muscle cells. Atenolol is used to reduce blood pressure and heart rate and is used to treat conditions such as hypertension, chest pain, migraines, and heart attacks.

How to Use

Take this medication by mouth with water. It can be taken with or without food.

Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine without consulting with your doctor.

It is important that you take this medicine at regular intervals, exactly as prescribed. Do not take it more than directed.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is already almost time for your next dose, take only the next dose, do not double up on any dose.

Important Information

Do not suddenly stop taking this medication, this can cause a risk of serious adverse events.

Sit down and stand up slowly when starting this medication to avoid dizziness.

Be sure that your prescribing doctor is aware if you have any of the the following conditions before taking this medication

 Diabetes, heart or blood vessel conditions, kidney disease, lung or breathing conditions, pheochromocytoma, thyroid disease, allergic reactions, pregnancy or breastfeeding, thyroid conditions.

Side effects that should be immediately reported to your healthcare provider

Allergic reaction(hives, itching, rashes, swelling of the face or mouth), trouble breathing, vision changes, chest pain, dizziness or lightheadedness, fever with sore throat, swelling of ankles or legs, sudden weight gain, heartbeat changes, cold or tingling feet or hands.

Other Side Effects

Anxiety/nervousness, dry skin, diarrhea, libido changes, sleeping trouble or nightmares, memory effects, upset stomach, fatigue, headache.

Adult Doses

Hypertension

50 mg by mouth once daily as a starting dose. The dose is often increase to 100mg after 1-2 weeks. 

Migraine prevention

100 mg by mouth daily.

Angina

50-100mg by mouth once daily.

Sources

1. Rosendorff C, Black HR, Cannon CP, et al. Treatment of Hypertension in the Prevention and Management of Ischemic Heart Disease: A Scientific Statement from the American Heart Association Council for High Blood Pressure Research and the Councils on Clinical Cardiology and Epidemiology and Prevention. Circulation 2007;115:2761-88.

2. Braunwald E, Mark DB, Jones RH, et al. Unstable angina: diagnosis and management. Clinical Practice Guideline No. 10. AHCPR Publication no. 94-0602. Rockville, MD: Agency for Health Care Policy and Research, Public Health Service, US Department of Health and Human Services; 1994.