What it is used for
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Chest pain from angina
- Some irregular heart rhythms
- Protecting the heart after a heart attack
How it works
Atenolol blocks the effect of adrenaline-type hormones on the heart, slowing the heart rate and reducing how hard the heart has to work. This lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart's oxygen demand, helping to ease angina.
How it is taken
Taken by mouth as a tablet, and as an oral liquid in some countries, usually once a day. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and follow the label. Do not stop suddenly, as stopping abruptly can worsen heart problems; your clinician will guide any gradual reduction.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Cold hands and feet
- Slow heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Sleep disturbance or vivid dreams
Serious effects — get help
- Very slow heartbeat, fainting, or severe dizziness
- Shortness of breath, wheezing, or swelling of the ankles (possible heart or breathing problems)
- Sudden worsening of chest pain if the medicine is stopped abruptly
- Signs of very low blood sugar being masked in people with diabetes
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other heart-rate-slowing medicines such as certain calcium channel blockers (verapamil, diltiazem)
- Other blood pressure medicines (additive effect)
- Diabetes medicines including insulin (may hide low-blood-sugar warning signs)
- Some asthma or COPD treatments
- Clonidine (special care needed when stopping)
Who should take care
- Tell your clinician if you have asthma, COPD, or other breathing problems
- Use caution with diabetes, as it can mask low-blood-sugar symptoms
- Do not stop suddenly — taper under medical guidance
- Discuss use in pregnancy or breastfeeding with your doctor
- Mention circulation problems or a very slow resting heart rate