Tenormin

Common Name: atenolol

How does Tenormin work?

Atenolol belongs to a class of medications called beta-blockers. It is used to lower high blood pressure and to prevent the symptoms of angina (chest pain). It works by reducing the demands put on the heart. Atenolol is often used in combination with other high blood pressure medications such as diuretics (water pills) when the use of one medication by itself is not enough to control blood pressure. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Tenormin?

The recommended adult dose of atenolol ranges from 50 mg to 100 mg once daily depending on circumstances. People with reduced kidney function may need a lower dose of 50 mg every other day. The full effect of the medication is usually seen within one to two weeks. If blood pressure is not reduced sufficiently after this time, the doctor may increase the dose of the medication or add another blood-pressure-lowering medication. If satisfactory results are not seen within one week for treatment of angina, the doctor may increase the dose of atenolol. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken regularly and exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without first talking with your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on with your regular schedule. If it is within eight hours of your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses. Do not stop taking this medication suddenly without checking with your doctor first. Stopping the medication suddenly after you have been taking it for a while may cause unpleasant and potentially harmful effects.

What form(s) does Tenormin come in?

Tenormin® is available in strengths of 50 mg and 100 mg. 50 mg: Each scored, white-to-off-white, film-coated tablet, embossed with "TENORMIN 50" on one side, contains atenolol 50 mg. Sodium: <1 mmol (0.3 mg). 100 mg: Each scored, white-to-off-white, film-coated tablet, embossed with "TENORMIN" on one side, contains atenolol 100 mg. Sodium: <1 mmol (0.6 mg). Nonmedicinal ingredients: gelatin, glycerol, heavy magnesium carbonate, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, maize starch, sodium lauryl sulfate, and titanium dioxide.

What should I NOT take with Tenormin?

Atenolol should not be taken by people who: are allergic to atenolol or any ingredients of the medication have a severely slow heart rate have serious heart block have congestive heart failure have very low blood pressure have severe peripheral arterial disorders (blockage of blood flow to limbs of body) have a condition known as pheochromocytoma (in the absence of alpha-blockade) have metabolic acidosis have a condition known as right ventricular failure caused by pulmonary hypertension have a condition known as "sick sinus syndrome"

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Tenormin?

Stopping usage: Atenolol should not be stopped suddenly by people who are taking it to treat angina. There have been reports of severe worsening of angina and of heart attack or abnormal heart rhythms occurring in people with angina pectoris who have done this. Low blood sugar: The signs of low blood sugar may not be as noticeable when taking atenolol. People with diabetes who take insulin or other drugs that affect insulin levels in the blood should be cautious and monitor blood sugar carefully while taking this medication. Breathing conditions: Patients with asthma and certain other breathing problems should not, in general, take a beta-blocker such as atenolol. Low doses of atenolol may be taken with caution by people with asthma who do not respond to or cannot tolerate alternative treatment. Slow heart rate: People with an abnormally slow pulse should not, in general, take a beta-blocker such as atenolol. History of heart failure: People with a history of heart failure should be cautious while taking atenolol as it may increase the risks associated with this condition. Prinzmetal's angina: Atenolol may increase the number and duration of angina attacks in patients with Prinzmetal's angina. Therefore, people suffering from this condition should be cautious while taking atenolol. Hyperthyroidism (high level of thyroid hormones): People with hyperthyroidism should be cautious while taking atenolol as it may reduce the symptoms of this condition giving a false impression of improvement. Stopping the medication suddenly could worsen this condition. Kidney disease: People with kidney disease should be cautious while taking atenolol as they are at increased risk of experiencing side effects. Severe allergies: People with allergies severe enough to cause anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction where swelling of the face, lips, and throat make it difficult to breathe) should talk to their doctor about what to do if they have an allergic reaction. Atenolol may make it more difficult to treat their allergic reaction with epinephrine. Surgery: If you are scheduled for surgery, inform all doctors involved in your care that you are taking atenolol. Occupational hazards: The use of atenolol is unlikely to impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, it should be taken into account that dizziness, fatigue, or a slower reaction time may occur. Pregnancy: There have not been adequate studies on the use of atenolol by pregnant women; however, studies have shown that atenolol does cross the placenta. Atenolol should not be taken by pregnant women unless the potential benefit justifies the risk. Breast-feeding: Atenolol appears in breast milk. It should not be used by nursing mothers. Children: There have not been adequate studies on the use of atenolol by children. They should not use this medication.