Atenolol Oral

In Depth

Generic Name: ATENOLOL - ORAL
Pronounced: (ah-TEN-oh-lol)

Atenolol Oral Warning

If you have chest pain (angina) or have heart disease (e.g., coronary artery disease, ischemic heart disease, high blood pressure), do not stop using this drug without first consulting your doctor. Your condition may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. If your doctor decides you should no longer use this drug, you must gradually decrease your dose according to your doctor's instructions.

When gradually stopping this medication, it is recommended that you temporarily limit physical activity to decrease the work on the heart. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop: worsening chest pain, tightness or pressure in the chest, chest pain spreading to the jaw/neck/arm, sweating, trouble breathing or fast/irregular heartbeat.

Atenolol Oral Side Effects

You may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, tiredness, nausea, diarrhea, unusual dreams, leg pain, or vision problems as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

This drug may reduce blood flow to your hands and feet, causing them to feel cold. Smoking may worsen this effect. Dress warmly and avoid tobacco use.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

symptoms of a very slow heartbeat (e.g., persistent dizziness, fainting, unusual fatigue)
bluish discoloration of the fingers and toes
numbness/tingling/swelling of the hands or feet
decreased sexual ability
reversible hair loss
mental/mood changes
aching/swollen joints
butterfly-shaped rash on the nose and cheeks
trouble breathing
cough
unexplained or sudden weight gain
increased thirst
increased urination