ATENOLOL (Tenormin®) - ORAL
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Atenolol
USES:
Atenolol controls, but does not cure, high blood pressure (hypertension). Atenolol also relieves chest pain (angina), and can be helpful after a heart attack.
HOW TO USE:
Take Atenolol tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking Atenolol except on your prescriber's advice
SIDE EFFECTS:
Side effects of Atenolol that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:; changes in vision; cold, tingling, or numb hands or feet; confusion; difficulty breathing, wheezing; dizziness or fainting spells; increased thirst; increase in the amount of urine passed; irregular heartbeat; skin rash; slow heart rate (fewer than recommended by your prescriber or health care professional); sweating; swollen legs or ankles; tremor, shakes; vomiting; weight loss Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):; anxiety; depression, nightmares; diarrhea; difficulty sleeping; dry itching skin; dry or burning eyes; headache; nausea; sexual difficulties, impotence; unusual tiredness
PRECAUTIONS:
Before taking Atenolol, tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions:; asthma, bronchitis or bronchospasm; circulation problems, or blood vessel disease (such as Raynaud's disease); depression; diabetes; emphysema; history of heart attack or heart disease; kidney disease; muscle weakness or disease; pheochromocytoma; psoriasis; thyroid disease; an unusual or allergic reaction to atenolol, other beta-blockers, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives; pregnant or trying to get pregnant; breast-feeding
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
cocaine; hawthorn; medicines for colds and breathing difficulties; medicines for diabetes; medicines for high blood pressure; medicines to control heart rhythm; water pills Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting Atenolol or any of your medicines.
OVERDOSE:
If Atenolol overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, and decreased pupil size.
NOTES:
Do not share Atenolol with others.
MISSED DOSE:
Take any missed Atenolol dose as soon as possible but not if it is almost time for the next dose. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist to establish a new dosing schedule. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly. This could lead to serious heart-related effects.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
What should my health care professional know before I take Atenolol? They need to know if you have any of these conditions:; asthma, bronchitis or bronchospasm; circulation problems, or blood vessel disease (such as Raynaud's disease); depression; diabetes; emphysema; history of heart attack or heart disease; kidney disease; muscle weakness or disease; pheochromocytoma; psoriasis; thyroid disease; an unusual or allergic reaction to atenolol, other beta-blockers, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives; pregnant or trying to get pregnant; breast-feeding. Consult your healthcare professional before using Atenolol.
STORAGE:
Store Atenolol at room temperature and keep away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom around any damp or humid areas.
