Atenolol Overdose

As with any medication, it is possible to overdose on atenolol. Some possible symptoms of an atenolol overdose include a decrease in breathing, extremely low blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and a severe decrease in heart rate. Treatment for an atenolol overdose may involve administering certain medicines, "pumping the stomach," and/or providing supportive care (which consists of treating the symptoms that occur as a result of the overdose).

 

Atenolol Overdose: An Overview

Atenolol (Tenormin®) is a prescription medication that is used for lowering blood pressure (hypertension), relieving angina symptoms, and improving the chances of survival after a heart attack. Tenormin may also be used for other reasons, such as treating migraines or anxiety. As with other medicines, it is possible to take too much atenolol. The effects of an atenolol overdose will vary depending on a number of factors, including how much atenolol is taken and whether it is taken with any other medicines, alcohol, and/or drugs.
 
If you happen to overdose on atenolol, seek medical attention immediately.
 

Symptoms of an Atenolol Overdose

When someone overdoses on atenolol, the symptoms can vary. Some examples of atenolol overdose symptoms include but are not limited to:
 
  • Tiredness
  • A decrease in breathing
  • Wheezing
  • Extremely low blood pressure
  • A severe decrease in heart rate (bradycardia)
  • Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
  • Abnormal heart rhythms
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Loss of life.
     

Treatment for an Atenolol Overdose

The treatment for an atenolol overdose will vary.
 If the atenolol overdose was recent, the healthcare provider may give certain medicines or place a tube into the stomach to "pump the stomach." The healthcare provider may also recommend dialysis, which can remove atenolol from the blood. Treatment will also involve supportive care, which consists of treating the symptoms that occur as a result of the overdose. For example, supportive treatment options for an atenolol overdose may include:
 
  • Fluids through an intravenous line (IV)
  • Medications to increase blood pressure or heart rate
  • Medications to improve breathing
  • Medicines or placement of a pacemaker for abnormal heart rhythms
  • Close monitoring of the heart and lungs.
     
It is important that you seek medical attention immediately if you believe that you may have overdosed on atenolol.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;