US Brand Name: {Tenormin} ({Atenolol})
Pharmacologic Category: {Beta-Blocker} Other medications in the same pharmacologic category include: {Metoprolol} (Lopressor, Toprol-XL), {Propranolol} (Inderal), {Bisoprolol} (Zebeta), {Carvedilol} (Coreg), {Nebivolol} (Bystolic)
Diseases Treated and Dosing Information:
{Hypertension} (high blood pressure): Initial dose of 50 mg once daily, may be increased to 100 mg once daily if needed. Maintenance dose ranges between 50-100 mg once daily.
{Angina pectoris} (chest pain): 50 mg once daily, may be increased to 100 mg once daily if needed.
{Myocardial infarction} (heart attack) – for secondary prevention: 50-100 mg once daily, usually initiated within 7 days of the event.
{Supraventricular tachycardia} (abnormally fast heart rate): 50-100 mg once daily.
{Atrial fibrillation} (irregular heart rhythm): 50-100 mg once daily.
{Atrial flutter} (abnormal heart rhythm): 50-100 mg once daily.
{Long QT syndrome} (a heart rhythm disorder): Dosage varies, consult a healthcare professional.
{Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy} (thickened heart muscle): 50-100 mg once daily.
{Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome} (POTS): Dosage varies, consult a healthcare professional.
{Thyrotoxicosis} (overactive thyroid): 25-100 mg once daily.
Dosage Forms and Strengths:
Tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg
Administration Instructions:
Atenolol should be taken with a full glass of water, with or without food. Take at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. Do not abruptly stop taking Atenolol, as it may cause a worsening of heart conditions.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects:
{Dizziness} or lightheadedness (common): Feeling of unsteadiness or loss of balance. {Fatigue} (common): General feeling of tiredness or lack of energy. {Slow heart rate} (bradycardia) (common): Abnormally slow heart rate. {Cold hands and feet} (less common): Reduced blood flow leading to a sensation of coldness. {Shortness of breath} (less common): Difficulty breathing, especially during physical exertion. {Depression} (rare): Persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities.
Contraindications:
Hypersensitivity to Atenolol or other beta-blockers. Severe {bradycardia} (slow heart rate). {Heart block} greater than first degree. Uncontrolled {heart failure}. {Cardiogenic shock}. Severe peripheral arterial circulatory disorders.
Drug to Drug Interactions:
{Amiodarone} (Cordarone, Pacerone) {Clonidine} (Catapres) {Diltiazem} (Cardizem, Tiazac) {Verapamil} (Calan, Verelan) {Digoxin} (Lanoxin) {Epinephrine} (Adrenalin, EpiPen) {Fingolimod} (Gilenya) {Insulin} and oral diabetes medications
Pregnancy:
Atenolol may cause harm to the fetus during pregnancy. It should only be used if the potential benefits outweigh the risks, and under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Breastfeeding:
Atenolol is excreted in breast milk and may have adverse effects on the nursing infant, such as {bradycardia}, {hypotension}, and respiratory depression. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking Atenolol while breastfeeding to assess potential risks and benefits.
Estimate Price of a 30-Day Supply:
The price of a 30-day supply of Atenolol varies depending on the dosage and location. Assuming the patient doesn’t have insurance and is utilizing a GoodRx coupon, the average cost for a 30-day supply ranges from $4 to $15. It’s important to check the most current prices at your local pharmacy or through online resources like GoodRx.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.