Atenolol is a medication prescribed to treat certain heart diseases, such as arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). It works by slowing the heart rate and helping it to work more efficiently. It may also be prescribed to lower blood pressure. Customers may receive this drug under the name Tenormin.
Uses
Atenolol tablets, USP are indicated for the treatment of hypertension and to help lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure lowers the risk of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and myocardial infarctions. These benefits have been seen in controlled trials of antihypertensive drugs from a wide variety of pharmacologic classes including atenolol.
Possible Side Effects
May cause tiredness, diarrhea; low blood pressure which would cause faintness, weakness, or dizziness. May constrict the bronchi, causing coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. It may cause the heart rate to be too slow if given at an improper dose. Consult with your veterinarian if you notice any of the above side effects.
Drug & Food Interactions
Atenolol tablets are contraindicated in sinus bradycardia, heart block greater than first degree, cardiogenic shock, and overt cardiac failure. Atenolol tablets are contraindicated in those pets with a history of hypersensitivity to the atenolol or any of the drug product’s components.
Precautions
Pets already on a beta blocker must be evaluated carefully before atenolol is administered. Initial and subsequent atenolol dosages can be adjusted downward depending on clinical observations including pulse and blood pressure. Atenolol may aggravate peripheral arterial circulatory disorders. Use with caution in animals with kidney disease, diabetes and certain types of lung diseases such as asthma. This medication should not be used in pets with certain heart conditions.
This drug is FDA-approved for human use. However, it is common practice for veterinarians to prescribe such drugs for use in dogs and cats.
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Frequently, atenolol is given with other drugs, especially in pets undergoing treatment for heart failure or arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythm). In these situations, a lower initial dose may be prescribed.
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