atenolol Health Article

Generic name(s):

atenolol

Brand name(s):

Tenormin

What is the most important information I should know about atenolol?

Do not stop taking atenolol without first talking to your doctor. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.

If you need to have any type of surgery, you may need to temporarily stop using atenolol. Be sure the surgeon knows ahead of time that you are using atenolol.

Atenolol can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol, which could increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking atenolol.

Atenolol is only part of a complete program of treatment for hypertension that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely if you are being treated for hypertension.

Hypertension often has no symptoms, so you may not even feel that you have high blood pressure. Continue using this medicine as directed, even if you feel well. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

What is atenolol?

Atenolol is in a group of drugs called beta-blockers. Beta-blockers affect the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins).

Atenolol is used to treat angina (chest pain) and hypertension (high blood pressure). It is also used to treat or prevent heart attack.

Atenolol may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking atenolol?

Before taking atenolol, tell your doctor if you have:

• asthma, bronchitis, emphysema;

• diabetes;

• low blood pressure;

• a heart problem such as heart block, sick sinus syndrome, slow heart rate, or congestive heart failure;

• depression;

• liver or kidney disease;

• a thyroid disorder;

• myasthenia gravis;

• pheochromocytoma; or

• problems with circulation (such as Raynaud's syndrome).

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use atenolol, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use atenolol if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication. Atenolol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.