Brand name: Atenolol
Pronounced: Ten-OR-min
Generic name: Atenolol
Why is Atenolol prescribed?

Atenolol, a type of medication known as a beta blocker, is used in the treatment of high blood pressure, angina pectoris (chest pain, usually caused by lack of oxygen in the heart muscle due to clogged arteries), and heart attack. When used for high blood pressure it is effective alone or combined with other high blood pressure medications, particularly with a thiazide-type water pill (diuretic). Beta blockers decrease the force and rate of heart contractions.

Occasionally doctors prescribe Atenolol for treatment of alcohol withdrawal, prevention of migraine headache, and bouts of anxiety.
Most important fact about Atenolol without prescriptions

If you have high blood pressure, you must take Atenolol regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Atenolol; and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Atenolol does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take Atenolol?

Atenolol can be taken with or without food. Take it exactly as prescribed, even if your symptoms have disappeared.

Try not to miss any doses, especially if you are taking Atenolol once a day. If Atenolol is not taken regularly, your condition may worsen.

If you miss a dose --

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it's within 8 hours of your next scheduled dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

Storage instructions...

Store Atenolol at room temperature; protect from light.
Atenolol side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Atenolol.

* Side effects may include:
Dizziness, fatigue, nausea, slow heartbeat

Why should Atenolol not be prescribed?

If you have heart failure, inadequate blood supply to the circulatory system (cardiogenic shock), heart block (conduction disorder), or a severely slow heartbeat, you should not take this medication. You'll also need to avoid it if it gives you an allergic reaction.
Special warnings about Atenolol

If you have a history of severe congestive heart failure, Atenolol should be used with caution.

Atenolol should not be stopped suddenly. It can cause increased chest pain and heart attack. Dosage should be gradually reduced.

If you suffer from asthma, seasonal allergies, or other bronchial conditions, coronary artery disease or kidney disease, this medication should be used with caution.

Ask your doctor if you should check your pulse while taking Atenolol. This medication can cause your heartbeat to become too slow.

This medication may mask the symptoms of low blood sugar or alter blood sugar levels. If you are diabetic, discuss this with your doctor.

Notify your doctor or dentist that you are taking Atenolol if you have a medical emergency, and before you have surgery or dental surgery.

Atenolol may cause harm to a developing baby when taken during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking this medication, inform your doctor immediately.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Atenolol

If Atenolol free Rx is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Atenolol with the following:

Ampicillin (Omnipen, others)
Calcium-containing antacids such as Tums
Calcium-blocking blood pressure drugs such as Calan and Cardizem
Certain other blood pressure drugs such as reserpine (Diupres)
Clonidine (Catapres)
Epinephrine (EpiPen)
Indomethacin (Indocin)
Insulin
Oral diabetes drugs such as Micronase
Quinidine (Quinidex)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The use of Atenolol during pregnancy may cause harm to a developing baby. If you are pregnant, become pregnant, or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Atenolol appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Atenolol is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.
Recommended dosage for Atenolol

ADULTS
Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

* Symptoms of Atenolol overdose may include:
Congestive heart failure, constricted airways, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, slow heartbeat, sluggishness, wheezing