Atenolol
Generic Name: Atenolol
Typical Brand Name(s): Blocadren, Corgard, Lopressor,
Sectral, Tenormin, Visken
What
Is It Used For?
Atenolol is used for chest pain (angina), high blood
pressure and irregular heartbeats.
How
Is It Used?
Take Atenolol exactly as prescribed. Try
to take it at the same time(s) each day. Do not suddenly stop
taking Atenolol without consulting your doctor. Some conditions
may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. |
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Warning:
If you have angina or have had heart problems,
do not suddenly stop using Atenolol without first consulting
your doctor. If your doctor decides you should no longer use
this medication, you must stop Atenolol gradually according
to your doctor's instructions.
Are There Possible
Side Effects?
You may experience dizziness, lightheadedness,
drowsiness, and blurred vision as your body adjusts to the
medication. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness.
Because beta-blockers reduce blood circulation to the extremities,
your hands and feet may be more susceptible to the cold. Dress
warm. Inform your doctor if you develop:
- Easy bruising or bleeding,
- Swollen hands or feet,
- Confusion,
- Depression,
- A sore throat.
In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction
to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms
of an allergic reaction include:
- Rash,
- Itching,
- Swelling,
- Dizziness,
- Trouble breathing.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor
or pharmacist.
What special
precautions should I follow?
Before taking Atenolol, tell your doctor if you have a history
of:
- Heart disease,
- Kidney disease,
- Liver disease,
- Asthma,
- Bronchitis,
- Emphysema,
- any other lung disease, diabetes, overactive thyroid gland,
any drug allergies.
Before having surgery,
tell the doctor or dentist in charge that you are taking a
beta-blocker. Atenolol should be used only if clearly needed
during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor. Atenolol is excreted into breast milk and though no
problems have been noted, the possibility for adverse effects
to the infant exists. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
What About
Interactions With Other Drugs?
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs
you may use, especially of:
- Diuretics,
- Cold preparations and nasal decongestants,
- Reserpine,
- Other heart or high blood pressure medications.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
In case of emergency/overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your
local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Symptoms of overdose may include usually fast or slow heartbeat,
dizziness, slow or shallow breathing, seizures, unconsciousness,
weakness, or fatigue.
What If I Miss A
Dose?
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered
but not if it is within 4 hours of next dose (8 hours for
penbutolol, atenolol, nadolol). If it is, skip the missed
dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up"
the dose to catch up.
How Should It Be
Stored?
Store at room temperature between 59 and
86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture
and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
Anything Else I Should
Know?
Your doctor may want you to take your pulse
each day while you take Atenolol. Learn how to monitor your
pulse.
NOTE: The above
information is intended to supplement, not substitute for,
the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist,
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed
to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate,
or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional
before taking the product. |
