What is the most important information I should know about atenolol?
Do not stop taking atenolol without first talking to your doctor. Stopping suddenly
may make your condition worse.
If you need to have any type of surgery, you may need to temporarily stop using atenolol.
Be sure the surgeon knows ahead of time that you are using atenolol.
Atenolol can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be
careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.
Avoid
drinking alcohol, which could increase
drowsiness and
dizziness while you are
taking atenolol.
Atenolol is only part of a complete program of treatment for hypertension that may also
include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines
very closely if you are being treated for hypertension.
Hypertension often has no symptoms, so you may not even feel that you have high blood
pressure. Continue using this medicine as directed, even if you feel well. You may need to use
blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.
What is atenolol?
Atenolol is in a group of drugs called beta-blockers. Beta-blockers affect the heart and
circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins).
Atenolol is used to treat angina (chest pain) and hypertension (high blood pressure). It is
also used to treat or prevent heart attack.
Atenolol may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking atenolol?
Before taking atenolol, tell your doctor if you have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use
atenolol, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby.
Do not use atenolol if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become
pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this
medication.
Atenolol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this
medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
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