In general, atenolol is used for the treatment of high blood pressure and chest pain caused by angina, and is also often administered after a heart attack to improve survival. Off-label uses for the drug include preventing migraines, treating arrhythmias, and relieving alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Atenolol has not been approved for use in children.
In clinical studies, atenolol has been shown to significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The higher the dose of atenolol, the greater the drop in blood pressure is expected to be, up to an atenolol dose of 100 mg daily (at higher doses, no further blood pressure reduction is expected). By lowering blood pressure, atenolol can decrease the risks that occur with long-term high blood pressure (see Effects of High Blood Pressure). Atenolol does not, however, cure high blood pressure.
Angina
Angina is a type of heart disease that occurs when the heart muscle is not getting enough nutrient- and oxygen-rich blood for a short period of time. The inadequate blood flow is caused by narrowed coronary arteries (the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart). Chest pain is the most common angina symptom that occurs (see Angina Symptoms for other symptoms of angina).
Atenolol is effective at treating symptoms of angina because it decreases the workload of the heart. This, in turn, means that the heart needs less oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to function properly at any given level of effort. Atenolol does not cure this type of heart disease.
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