Atenolol is used to treat high blood pressure. It also is used to
prevent angina (chest pain) and heart attacks. It works by relaxing
your blood vessels so your heart doesn't have to pump as hard.
Atenolol
is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist
for more information.
How
should Atenolol be used?
Atenolol
comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken once or twice
a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully,
and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Take Atenolol exactly as directed. Do not
take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your
doctor. Atenolol helps control your condition
but will not cure it. Continue to take Atenolol
even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Atenolol
without talking to your doctor.
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 Atenolol may make you drowsy. Do not drive a
car or operate machinery until you know how Atenolol affects you.
remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by Atenolol.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is
almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your
regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for
a missed one.
What
side effects can Atenolol cause?
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
What storage conditions are needed for Atenolol?
Keep Atenolol in the container it came
in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room
temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed.
Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What
other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.
Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to determine your
response to Atenolol. Your doctor may ask you to check your pulse
(heart rate). Ask your pharmacist or doctor to teach you how to
take your pulse. If your pulse is faster or slower than it should
be, call your doctor.
Do
not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any
questions you have about refilling your prescription