Summary
Atenolol: beta-blocker drug whose main effect is to lower blood pressure. Mainly used in cases of hypertension , angina, arrhythmias and after myocardial infarction .
About a molecule
Chemical name: (RS)-2-[4-[2-hydroxy-3-(1-methylethylamino)propoxy]phenyl]ethanamide
Molecule names: Atenolol
Commercial names: Ablok, Angiless, Angipress, Atecard, Ateneo, Ateneum, Atenobal, Atenol®, Atenolab, Atenolol, Atenopress, Atenorm, Atenoton, Atensiol, Atenuol, Atepress, Biotenor, Plenacor, Ritcor, Telol, Tenolon,
Dose
– Neonates: 0.5 to 4 mg/kg/day
– Children: 0.8 to 2.0 mg/kg/day (< 100mg/day)
– Adults and elderly: 12.5 to 200 mg/day
Persons with impaired renal function require dose adjustment.
Posology
Children
– Hypertension: 0.5 – 1 mg/kg per day
adult or elderly
– Hypertension: 25-50mg once a day, which can be increased to 100mg/day.
– Angina pectores: 50mg once a day, which can be increased to 200mg/day.
– Post-myocardial infarction: 100mg per day can be divided into up to 2 times for 6 to 9 days after the infarction.
Indications
– Angina pectoris (chest pain on exertion)
Effects
Atenolol is a beta-blocker (beta-1 selective) that acts on the heart and circulation. Its main effect is to lower blood pressure, but it also reduces heart rate and contractility.
Adverse effects
The most common adverse effects are: bradycardia, cold hands and feet, tiredness, dizziness, diarrhea and gastrointestinal problems. It can cause problems with sexual performance that tend to improve over time.
You may also experience drowsiness, blurred vision, and confusion. Try not to drive or perform dangerous tasks until you know the effects of the drug on you.
contraindications
Atenolol should not be used in cases of suspected allergy, bradycardia, problem with the heart pumping blood, hypotension, metabolic acidosis, peripheral joint problems, sinus node syndrome, pheochromocytomy, decompensated heart failure.
Drug interactions
– Calcium channel blockers (e.g. verapamil, diltiazem, etc.)
– Diidropiridinas (ex.: nifedipino)
– Digitalis glycosides (eg digoxin)
– Disopyramide and amiodarne
– Prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors (eg ibuprofen ): may decrease the effect of atenolol
Pregnancy and lactation
It is not recommended to use atenolol during pregnancy without medical supervision.
This medicine can be found in cord blood, but there are no studies on its effect on the fetus when used during the first trimester of pregnancy, so it is not recommended. Its use in the third trimester of pregnancy is done under medical supervision, but it may cause intrauterine growth retardation.
Atenolol can also be found in breast milk and increases the risk of bradycardia and hypoglycemia in the baby.
pharmaceutical presentations
– Pills: 25, 50 and 100mg
Tips
For better effect:
– It should not be discontinued abruptly.
– Take with water preferably at the same time.
– Can be taken with or without food. But if the medicine causes stomach problems, prefer to take it with food.
– Tablets can be divided, crushed and mixed with food or liquid.
– Do not stop taking this medicine even if you are feeling better.
– Follow the diet and treatment plan that the doctor has established.
– Avoid the consumption of alcoholic beverages.
If you missed a dose:
– Do not take two doses at once or an extra dose.
– Take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at your regular time.
Some studies indicate that atenolol is more likely to be less effective in blacks.
Talk to your doctor before using any other medicine concurrently with atenolol.
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