Indications
Tenoretic is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. It is a combination product that contains two active ingredients: atenolol and chlorthalidone.
Atenolol belongs to the class of medications called beta-blockers. It works by slowing down the heart and reducing the workload on the heart. Chlorthalidone belongs to the class of medications called diuretics (water pills). It works by getting rid of excess salt and water.
Uses and Dosage
Tenoretic is a tablet that should be taken orally with or without food as per the doctor's instructions, usually once a day. Take a Tenoretic tablet at least 4 hours before you go to bed to avoid getting up to urinate during the night. In case you have any dosing schedule-related questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
The recommended dosages of Tenoretic (Atenolol/Chlorthalidone) depend on each individual's health and medical condition. The typical starting dose of Tenoretic is one tablet of 50 mg atenolol/25 mg chlorthalidone daily, and the maximum recommended dose is one tablet of 100 mg atenolol/25 mg chlorthalidone daily. However, the actual dosage may vary based on factors such as age, weight, kidney function, and the severity of the condition being treated.
To derive maximum benefits from Tenoretic, take it regularly at the same time each day. You can use a reminder to remember to take it. In case you are taking medication to lower your cholesterol level, such as cholestyramine or colestipol, take it at least two hours before or four hours after taking Tenoretic.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Tenoretic (Atenolol/Chlorthalidone):
- Cough
- Decreased sexual ability
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness (mild)
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight (skin rash, itching, redness, or other discoloration of skin, or severe sunburn)
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Trouble sleeping
Serious Side Effects of Tenoretic (Atenolol/Chlorthalidone):
- Breathing difficulty or wheezing
- Chest pain
- Cold hands and feet
- Dizziness when rising from a lying or sitting position
- Fainting
- Lower back or side pain
- Memory problems
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction (e.g., abdominal cramps, difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting, or swelling of the face and throat)
- Signs of liver problems (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine, pale stools)
- Signs of pancreatitis (e.g., abdominal pain on the upper left side, back pain, nausea, fever, chills, rapid heartbeat, swollen abdomen)
- Signs of too much potassium or sodium loss (muscle cramps or pain, weakness, vomiting)
- Skin rash or hives
- Slow heartbeat (especially less than 50 beats per minute)
- Spinning sensation
- Swelling of the ankles, feet, or lower legs
- Symptoms of irregular heartbeat (e.g., chest pain; dizziness; rapid, pounding heartbeat; shortness of breath)
- Vision problems
Form and Strength
Tenoretic (Atenolol/Chlorthalidone) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Tenoretic: Tablet
- 50/12.5mg
Atenolol/Chlorthalidone: Tablet
- 50/25mg
- 100/25mg
Caution
- It is not known if Tenoretic is safe and effective in children younger than 18 years of age.
- Avoid drinking apple/orange juice four hours before or after taking this medicine, unless otherwise directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
- Use caution in dosing/titrating patients with renal dysfunction.
- Tenoretic may cause side effects such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Tenoretic affects you.
- Tenoretic may interact with other medications, so inform your doctor of all the medications you are taking before starting Tenoretic.
- As with any medication, Tenoretic may cause allergic reactions in some patients. If you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, rash, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
- Tenoretic may worsen certain medical conditions, including asthma, heart failure, and diabetes. Inform your doctor if you have any of these conditions before taking Tenoretic.
- Tenoretic may cause interactions with certain medical tests, such as glucose tolerance tests. Inform your healthcare provider that you are taking Tenoretic before having any medical tests.
- Tenoretic may cause electrolyte imbalances, including low potassium levels. Patients with low potassium levels may experience a worsening of symptoms such as muscle weakness, cramps, or irregular heartbeats.
- Tenoretic may cause an increase in blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels carefully while taking the medication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How quickly does it take for Tenoretic to work?
You might notice effects on your heart rate within an hour of starting Tenoretic. But the maximum effect on your blood pressure usually happens about 2 to 4 hours after you take your dose.
Can I just stop taking Tenoretic?
No, you should not stop taking Tenoretic suddenly without talking to your provider about how to get off the medication safely. Stopping Tenoretic abruptly can be harmful by raising your risk of heart attack and irregular heart rhythm.
Are there any risks of taking atenolol during pregnancy?
Atenolol belongs to a family of medicines called beta blockers. There are no concerns that beta blockers cause birth defects, stillbirth, or preterm birth.
Resources
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/tenoretic.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-16214/tenoretic-50-oral/details
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/tenoretic
- https://www.goodrx.com/tenoretic/what-is
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/018760s028lbl.pdf
- https://www.rxlist.com/tenoretic-drug.htm
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