What is it used for?
Atenolol is mainly used to treat high blood pressure. It may also be prescribed for angina (heart-related chest pain), certain irregular heartbeats and to help prevent migraine attacks.
How does it work?
It is a beta-blocker that slows the heart rate and reduces the force of the heartbeat. This lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart’s workload.
How to take/use it
Take it exactly as prescribed, preferably at the same time each day. Do not stop taking it suddenly without medical advice, as this may worsen heart problems.
Common side effects
Feeling tired, dizziness, cold hands or feet, slow heartbeat, nausea and diarrhoea.
Precautions
Tell the doctor if there is asthma or other breathing disease, a slow heartbeat, heart conduction problems, diabetes or kidney disease. Atenolol may mask some warning signs of low blood sugar. Seek medical help for severe breathing difficulty, fainting, very slow heartbeat or worsening chest pain.
