Atenolol

What is Atenolol?

Atenolol is a medicine that belongs to a group called beta-blockers, used to treat high blood pressure and heart problems such as uneven heartbeat and angina.

How does Atenolol work?

Atenolol works by blocking the effects of the hormone, adrenaline. When you take beta blockers, your heart beats more slowly and with less force, which in turn brings your blood pressure down.

What are the benefits of taking Atenolol?

High blood pressure (also known as hypertension) or heart problems can be linked to a number of factors, such as a family history, a diet high in salt or being overweight or inactive. In addition to some lifestyle changes (such as smoking and/or drinking less and exercising more), it’s often advised to take medication, such as Atenolol, to manage the conditions in order to prevent more serious ailments such as stroke, heart attack or blood clots.

How do I use Atenolol?

Atenolol is a prescription-only medication. Always follow the your doctor’s advice and read the patient information leaflet provided in the medication packet. Take the tablets by swallowing whole with a drink of water, with or without food. You should take it at the same time of day, in order to help you remember.

What is the correct dosage of Atenolol?

Atenolol contains the active ingredient atenolol, in strengths of either 25mg, 50mg or 100mg per tablet. For high blood pressure, the usual dose is 100mg taken once a day, however your doctor may prescribe a lower amount in the case of elderly people or those with severe kidney problems. If you’re taking Atenolol for angina or heart rhythm disorders then the amount will differ, so you should always follow the advice of your doctor. If you forget to take your Atenolol tablet then you should take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s nearly time for your next dose. In this case, skip the forgotten dose and move straight onto the next one. Don’t worry but don’t double up on your dose to make up for a missed one. If you take more Atenolol than you should, then go to your nearest doctor or emergency department immediately. Symptoms of an overdose include reduced heart rate, blood pressure, and a feeling of tightness in chest.

What are the potential side effects of Atenolol?

Before taking Atenolol, you should always first consult your doctor. You should not take Atenolol if any of the following apply to you:

• If you are allergic to Atenolol or any of the other ingredients of this medicine
• If you have ever had heart failure which is not under control
• If you have ever had second or third-degree heart block
• If you have ever had very slow or very uneven heart beats, very low blood pressure or very poor circulation
• If you have a tumour called phaeochromocytoma that is not being treated
• If you have been told that you have higher than normal levels of acid in your blood (metabolic acidosis).
• If you are a child.

Your prescription of Atenolol may also be affected by a number of other factors, so you should make your doctor aware if any of the following apply:

• You have asthma, wheezing or any other similar breathing problems
• you get allergic reactions, for example to insect stings
• If you have ever had asthma or wheezing
• you have a type of chest pain (angina) called Prinzmetal’s angina
• You have poor blood circulation or controlled heart failure
• You have first-degree heart block
• You have diabetes
• You have thyrotoxicosis
• You have problems with your kidneys.

Like many medications with active ingredients, Atenolol can affect or be affected by other medicines. Particular medications that you may experience this with include the following:

• Clonidine (for high blood pressure or migraine)
• Verapamil, diltiazem and nifedipine (for high blood pressure or chest pain)
• Disopyramide, quinidine or amiodarone (for an uneven heart beat)
• Digoxin (for heart problems)
• Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine (a medicine that stimulates the heart)
• Ibuprofen or indometacin (for pain and inflammation)
• Insulin or medicines that you take by mouth for diabetes
• Medicines to treat nose or sinus congestion or other cold remedies.

If you are taking any of the above medications, then you should make your doctor aware so that they can advise whether or not Atenolol will be the best course of action for you. Like with all sufferers of high blood pressure or heart problems, you should pair your medication with some lifestyle changes such as eating healthily, exercising regularly and avoiding excessive smoking or drinking. You should largely avoid alcohol while taking this medication (or at least limit your consumption), as it can cause your blood pressure to drop too low. The most common side effects of using Atenolol include:

• Slower pulse rate
• Cold hands and feet
• Diarrhoea
• Feeling sick (nausea)
• Feeling tired
• Aching and tired muscles.

Potential side effect of Atenolol	Description of side effect
Slower pulse rate	A slower than normal heart rate, which can cause fatigue and dizziness
Cold hands and feet	A feeling of coldness in the extremities, which can be uncomfortable
Diarrhoea	A condition in which loose or watery stools occur frequently
Feeling sick (nausea)	A sensation of queasiness or discomfort in the stomach, which may or may not lead to vomiting
Feeling tired	A general feeling of fatigue or exhaustion, which can be caused by the medication or other factors
Aching and tired muscles	Muscle pain and weakness, which can be accompanied by fatigue and other symptoms

If you do experience one or more of these side effects and they persist or worsen, then inform your doctor right away. You should also contact your doctor if you notice any serious side effects such as abnormal heartbeat, shortness of breath or allergic reaction.

How do I buy Atenolol online?

You can safely buy Atenolol online at Meds for Less. You will first need to have an online consultation with a pharmacist independent prescriber before your order will be supplied. The online consultation will ensure that Atenolol tablets are the right medication for your medical condition.