Indications
Tenormin is a prescription medication is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), angina (chest pain), and certain types of heart rhythm disorders. It contains the active ingredient atenolol. Atenolol belongs to a group of drugs called beta-blockers. It works by blocking certain natural chemicals (such as epinephrine) that affect the heart and blood vessels, which helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow.
Tenormin can be used to lower high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. It comes as tablets that are taken by mouth. It is available in three strengths: 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg.
Uses and Dosage
Atenolol comes in the form of tablets to take by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 1 to 2 times daily. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. The dosage and frequency of Atenolol may vary based on individual factors, such as medical condition and response to treatment. Here are some general guidelines for how to use Atenolol:
The recommended dosage of atenolol (Tenormin) can vary depending on the condition being treated. However, the common recommended dosage is as bellow:
- Hypertension: 25-50 mg/day initially; may be increased to 100 mg/day PO
- Angina Pectoris: 50mg/day initially; after 1 week, may be increased to 100 mg/day PO. Initial dose: 50 mg/day PO; if optimal response is not achieved within one week, the dosage should be increased.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Tenormin (Atenolol):
- Cold extremities
- Depression
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness upon standing
- Dreaming
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Leg pain
- Lethargy
- Lightheadedness
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
- Slow heart rate
- Spinning sensation (vertigo)
- Tiredness
Serious Side Effects of Tenormin (Atenolol):
- Antinuclear antibodies (ANA)
- Catatonia
- Disorientation
- Dry eyes
- Elevated serum hepatic enzymes and bilirubin
- Hallucinations
- Headache
- Impaired performance on neuropsychiatric tests
- Impotence
- Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
- Lupus syndrome
- Mood swings
- Nausea
- Peyronie's disease
- Psychoses
- Purple-colored spots on the skin
- Rashes
- Raynaud phenomenon
- Severe congestive heart failure (CHF)
- Short-term memory impairment
- Sick sinus syndrome
- Visual disturbances
Form and Strength
Tenormin (Atenolol) is available in the following forms and strength:
Tenormin: Tablet
- 25 mg
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
Atenolol: Tablet
- 25 mg
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
Caution
- Apple juice and orange juice may prevent your body from fully absorbing atenolol. It is best to avoid drinking apple/orange juice within 4 hours of taking atenolol, unless your doctor or pharmacist tells you otherwise.
- Be careful if you have diabetes as atenolol (Tenormin) can hide symptoms of low blood sugar.
- Do not stop taking atenolol (Tenormin) suddenly as it can increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, and irregular heart rhythm. If you need to stop this medication, your provider will usually taper you off over time.
- Patients taking Tenormin (Atenolol) are advised to avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness or low blood pressure.
- Patients with certain medical conditions such as asthma, heart problems, or diabetes may need special monitoring or adjustments to their dosage when taking Tenormin.
- Tenormin may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially during the first few days of treatment, so patients should be careful when driving, operating machinery, or performing other tasks that require alertness.
- Tenormin may cause interactions with other medications or medical conditions, so patients should inform their doctor and pharmacist of all medications they are taking and any medical conditions they have.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for atenolol to work?
Atenolol starts working after about 2 to 4 hours, but it can take up to 1 to 2 weeks before you see the full effects.
Can Tenormin (Atenolol) cause weight gain?
Yes, weight gain is a possible side effect of Tenormin (Atenolol), but the average weight gain is usually not significant.
Can I stop taking Tenormin (Atenolol) abruptly?
No, do not abruptly stop taking Tenormin (Atenolol) as it may cause chest pain, heart attack, or other serious side effects.
How long does it take for Tenormin (Atenolol) to start working?
It can take several weeks for Tenormin (Atenolol) to reach its full effect in reducing blood pressure, but some improvement may be noticed within a few days of starting treatment.
Resources
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9533/tenormin-oral/details
- https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/landing
- https://www.drugs.com/tenormin.html
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/atenolol
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tenormin
- https://www.goodrx.com/atenolol/what-is
- https://www.rxlist.com/consumer_atenolol_tenormin/drugs-condition.htm
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