ATENOLOL

Who is Atenolol for ?

Atenolol is used to treat high blood pressure. Atenolol also is used to prevent angina (chest pain) and heart attacks. Atenolol is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Atenolol also is used to treat alcohol withdrawal. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.

Atenolol is a beta-blocker medication. It works by blocking certain receptors in your heart so it does not pump as hard or as fast. Atenolol also relaxes blood vessels and helps the heart beat more regularly and more efficiently.

When should I be careful taking Atenolol ?

Do not stop taking Atenolol without talking to your doctor first. If Atenolol is stopped suddenly, it may cause chest pain or heart attack in some people.

Before taking Atenolol,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Atenolol or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially medications for migraine headaches, asthma, allergies, colds, or pain; other medications for heart or high blood pressure; reserpine; and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had asthma or other lung disease; diabetes; severe allergies; thyroid problems; or heart, liver, or kidney disease.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Atenolol, call your doctor immediately.
• you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
• remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.

Atenolol Side Effects

Although side effects from Atenolol are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• dizziness
• lightheadedness
• excessive tiredness
• cold hands and feet
• upset stomach
• diarrhea

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• shortness of breath or wheezing
• swelling of the feet and lower legs
• sudden weight gain
• chest pain