Atenolol
Uses of Atenolol
Atenolol is commonly used to treat Angina Heart Related Chest Pain and Arrhythmias.
How Atenolol Works
Atenolol is a beta-blocker which can reduce your blood pressure by blocking the effects of epinephrine. It causes your heart to beat slower and less forceful, thus reducing the blood pressure and can treat arrhythmias as well.
Side Effects of Atenolol
Bradycardia, Visual disturbances, Nausea, Dry mouth, Dry eyes, Diarrhea, Dizziness, Headache, Postural hypotension
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Atenolol should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease. 40% of the drug is excreted via urine. It is also contraindicated for patients who developed metabolic acidosis. Dose adjustment of Atenolol may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Atenolol. Even though there is only limited hepatic metabolism of Atenolol, taking Atenolol with alcohol may have worsened the adverse reactions such as headache, dizziness, nausea and visual disturbances.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Atenolol is likely to be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Studies have shown positive evidence of human fetal risk. However, in certain conditions, the benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk. Please consult your doctor.
Driving Generally Safe
Atenolol usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Use With Care
Atenolol should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Atenolol only has limited hepatic metabolism. However, uses of Atenolol with other drugs such as chlorthalidone may increase the risk of hepatic damage. Dose adjustment of Atenolol may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Lactation Not Advisable
Atenolol is probably unsafe to use during lactation. The American Academy of Paediatrics stated that Atenolol is one of Atenolols which gives significant effects in nursing infants. Thus, it should be used with caution for the nursing mothers. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
