Indications 

Atenolol is indicated as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy to manage hypertension, a medical condition that can lead to adverse health outcomes such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney problems. This medication is prescribed to alleviate chest pain (angina) and improve survival rates following a heart attack. 

As a beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent, atenolol modulates the body’s response to catecholamines, including epinephrine. Specifically, it impedes the activity of these endogenous chemicals on the heart and blood vessels, resulting in decreased heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac workload. 

Uses and Dosage 

Administer this medication orally with or without food, as directed by your physician, typically 1 to 2 times daily. 

Consumption of apple juice and orange juice may hinder complete absorption of atenolol. Refrain from drinking apple/orange juice within 4 hours of taking atenolol, unless advised otherwise by your physician or pharmacist. 

Dosage is determined based on your medical condition and response to therapy. 

Take this medication routinely to derive maximum benefit from it. To aid in recollection, take it at the same time(s) every day. Continue taking this medication even if you feel well.  

If you are using this product for chest pain, it should be taken regularly to be effective. Do not utilize it to alleviate chest pain when it occurs. Instead, employ other medications (such as nitroglycerin placed under the tongue) to relieve chest pain, as directed by your physician. 

It may take 1 to 2 weeks before you experience the full benefits of this medication. If your condition does not improve or worsens (for instance, if your blood pressure readings remain high or increase, or if your chest pain occurs more frequently), inform your physician. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reaction

Signs of an allergic reaction to Tenormin that require emergency medical help: 

• Hives 
• Difficult breathing 
• Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Severe Side Effects

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following: 

• New or worsening chest pain 
• Slow or uneven heartbeats 
• Feeling lightheaded, faint, or dizzy 
• Shortness of breath, swelling, or rapid weight gain (even with mild exertion) 
• Cold feeling in your hands and feet 

Common Side Effects  

• Cold hands or feet 
• Dizziness 
• Tiredness 
• Depressed mood 

Cautions 

Prior to taking Atenolol, inform your healthcare provider about any allergies you may have, including allergies to inactive ingredients that may be present in the product. For more information on this, you may consult your pharmacist. 

Moreover, before using this medication, provide your doctor or pharmacist with a complete medical history. This includes information about specific heart rhythm problems such as second- or third-degree atrioventricular block, breathing difficulties such as emphysema, asthma or chronic bronchitis, circulation problems such as peripheral vascular disease or Raynaud’s disease, kidney disease, heart failure, severe allergic reactions that required treatment with epinephrine, or muscle disease such as myasthenia gravis. 

This drug may cause dizziness. Using alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) while on this medication may increase this effect. Do not to engage in activities that require alertness until you are certain that you can do them safely. Limit alcohol intake and discuss cannabis use with your doctor. 

Before undergoing surgery, inform your surgeon or dentist about all the medications, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products you are using. 

Individuals with diabetes should be aware that Atenolol may mask the fast or pounding heartbeat that usually occurs when blood sugar levels fall too low (hypoglycemia).  

The drug does not affect other symptoms of low blood sugar, such as sweating and dizziness. This medication may make it more difficult to control blood sugar levels. 

Check blood sugar levels regularly, as directed by your doctor, and report any unusual symptoms such as increased thirst and urination. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet. 

For children, there may be a higher risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially if they are vomiting or not eating regularly. To help prevent low blood sugar, children should be fed on a regular schedule. If your child is vomiting or has symptoms of low blood sugar, such as sweating or seizures, stop the medication and notify the doctor immediately. 

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor as soon as possible. This medication should not be used during pregnancy, as it may harm the unborn baby. If you become pregnant while using Atenolol, talk to your doctor immediately about the potential risks and benefits of the medication. 

This medication passes into breast milk and may have negative effects on nursing infants. Consult with your doctor before breastfeeding while taking this medication.