Often used for:
Treatment of high blood pressure
What is atenolol?
Atenolol is an antihypertensive medicine known as a beta-blocker. It is used to lower blood pressure by making it easier for the heart to pump. Atenolol is also used to relieve certain types of chest pain and to help prevent migraine headaches.
Do not stop taking this medicine without talking to your care team or pharmacist. Stopping suddenly can lead to serious heart-related problems.
Atenolol at home
- This medicine can be taken with or without food. Take with food if stomach upset occurs.
- Tablets: Swallow whole.
- Liquid: Shake well before use and measure with the provided device.
- If a dose is missed, give it as soon as possible. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not give 2 doses at the same time.
- Store tablets at room temperature in a dry place.
- Store liquid medicine in the refrigerator.
- Do not use the medicine past the expiration date.
- Finish all doses as instructed and do not take more often or in greater amounts than prescribed.
- Follow instructions for safe handling, storage, and disposal.
Possible side effects
- Feeling tired or weak
- Changes in heart rhythm (slow or irregular heartbeat)
- Dizziness
- Low blood pressure
- These side effects may lessen with longer use.
- Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.
- Not all patients who take atenolol will have these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Report any symptoms or side effects to your care provider or pharmacist.
Tips for patients and families
- Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your health care team or pharmacist.
- Certain medicines can interact with atenolol. Tell your care provider about all medicines, vitamins, and supplements your child takes.
- This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Do not let your child do anything dangerous until you see how this medicine affects them.
- To reduce dizziness or fainting, have your child rise slowly after sitting or lying down and be careful on stairs.
- If your child has diabetes, monitor blood sugar closely because atenolol may mask symptoms of low blood sugar.
- Check your child's blood pressure and heart rate as instructed.
- Tell the care team if your child is sexually active, pregnant, or breastfeeding.
