Atenolol

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
Beta Blockers

Atenolol - What is it for

Atenolol belongs to a group of medications known as beta-blockers.

Beta-blockers are usually used in the treatment of different conditions such as

High blood pressure
Irregular heartbeat
Reduce chest pain/ discomfort (Angina)
Heart attack
Reduce symptoms such as tremors and fast heart rate in people with hyperthyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much of thyroid hormone.
Migraine, a type of headache

Atenolol - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Atenolol cause?

Dizziness and lightheadedness

This may occur especially when you get up quickly from lying or sitting down. Getting up slowly or changing posture slowly may help. Take a rest by sitting or lying down if you feel dizzy.

Coldness, numbness or tingling sensation of your fingers or toes
Feeling weak and tired, and that your heart beats slower
Shortness of breath
Problems with sexual intercourse

Inform your healthcare professional if these side effects do not go away and become bothersome to you.

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
Difficulty in breathing
Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

Before taking Atenolol , what precautions must I follow?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
You have asthma or other breathing problems – this medication may worsen or cause an asthma attack.
You have pre-diabetes or diabetes - this medication may hide symptoms of low blood sugar such as fast heartbeat or tremors. You may need to check your blood sugar more closely.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Atenolol ?

Atenolol - Dosage and How to Use

How should Atenolol be used?

Do not stop taking your medication without first checking with your healthcare professional.
You may take this medication with or without food.
If you have been taking this medication regularly for several weeks or more, do not stop this medication suddenly without consulting your healthcare professional. Stopping your medication suddenly may worsen your condition.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only the usual dose. Do not double your dose or use extra medication to make up for the missed dose.