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Atenolol
Atenolol is approved for controlling high blood pressure, relieving symptoms of angina, and improving survival following a heart attack. It works by blocking a specific type of beta receptor, which causes the reverse effect of stress hormones -- decreasing heart rate and systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as the workload of the heart. Common side effects seen with this medication include tiredness, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
Atenolol (Tenormin®) is a prescription medicine that has been licensed to treat several conditions related to the heart and blood vessels. It is part of a class of drugs called beta blockers.
Atenolol has been licensed to treat a number of conditions. These uses include:
- Controlling high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Relieving angina symptoms
- Improving survival following a heart attack.
However, the drug does not cure high blood pressure or angina.
Atenolol may also be recommended for other reasons, such as treatment of migraines or anxiety. It has not been approved for use in children.
(Click What Is Atenolol Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
As with any medicine, side effects can occur with atenolol. However, not everyone who takes it will experience problems. If side effects do occur, they are often minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
The most common side effects include:
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Depression (see Atenolol and Depression)
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- A slow heart rate (bradycardia)
- Cold hands or feet.
(Click Atenolol Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report to your healthcare provider.)
You can read about specific side effects in the following eMedTV articles:
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD