Atenolol and Low Blood Sugar

A number of side effects have been reported with atenolol, and low blood sugar levels are a known problem in people who take the medicine. Among the early symptoms of a low blood sugar level are sweating, dizziness, extreme hunger, and cold sweats. Some more severe symptoms of low blood sugar include difficulty speaking, loss of coordination, and changes in behavior (such as irritability). If you develop low blood sugar symptoms while taking atenolol, notify your healthcare provider immediately.

 

Does Atenolol Cause Low Blood Sugar?

Low blood sugar levels have been reported in people taking atenolol (Tenormin®) and other beta blockers. This side effect is more common in infants, children, and people with kidney disease or diabetes. Low blood sugar levels are also more likely to occur in people who are fasting, such as before surgery or after prolonged exercise.
 

Atenolol and Low Blood Sugar Symptoms

Low blood sugar symptoms can vary depending on a number of factors, including how low the blood sugar levels are.
 Some examples of early symptoms include:
 
  • Sweating
  • Shakiness
  • Extreme hunger
  • Dizziness
  • Cold sweats
  • Blurry vision.
     
More severe symptoms of low blood sugar can include:
 
  • Changes in behavior, such as irritability
  • Loss of coordination
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Confusion
  • Seizures
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Coma
  • Loss of life.
     
Two other symptoms that can occur in people with low blood sugar are increased heart rate and increased blood pressure. In people taking atenolol, these two low blood sugar symptoms may not occur because of the effects of the medicine.
 
(Atenolol and Low Blood Sugar Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;