a-card
Generic Name
Atenolol
Manufacturer
Hypothetical Pharma Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
A-card is a beta-blocker medicine containing Atenolol, used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), angina (chest pain), and certain types of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). It works by slowing down the heart rate and relaxing blood vessels.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Hypertension: Initially 50 mg once daily, increased to 100 mg once daily if necessary. Angina: Initially 50 mg once daily, increased to 100 mg once daily if necessary. Arrhythmias: 50-100 mg once daily.
Elderly
Lower initial doses (e.g., 25 mg once daily) may be appropriate, especially in those with impaired renal function. Gradually increase as needed under medical supervision.
Renal_impairment
Dosage adjustment required. Creatinine clearance 15-35 mL/min: 50 mg daily or 100 mg every other day. Creatinine clearance <15 mL/min: 50 mg every other day or 100 mg every 4 days. Hemodialysis patients: 50 mg after each dialysis.
How to Take
Take A-card orally, once daily, preferably at the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food. Do not chew or crush the tablet, swallow it whole with water.
Mechanism of Action
Atenolol is a selective beta-1 adrenergic receptor blocking agent. It primarily acts on beta-1 receptors in the heart, reducing heart rate, myocardial contractility, and cardiac output. This leads to a decrease in blood pressure and myocardial oxygen demand.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1 hour; peak effect 2-4 hours.
Excretion
Primarily renally excreted unchanged (approximately 50% within 24 hours).
Half life
6 to 7 hours; prolonged in renal impairment.
Absorption
Incompletely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (approximately 50-60% bioavailable) following oral administration.
Metabolism
Minimal hepatic metabolism (less than 10%).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Atenolol or any component of the formulation
- Bradycardia (heart rate <45 bpm)
- Second- or third-degree heart block
- Cardiogenic shock
- Uncontrolled heart failure
- Untreated pheochromocytoma
- Metabolic acidosis
Drug Interactions
Clonidine
Concomitant use may increase the risk of rebound hypertension upon clonidine withdrawal. If both are withdrawn, beta-blocker should be stopped first.
Insulin and oral hypoglycemics
Atenolol may mask symptoms of hypoglycemia (e.g., tachycardia), but not sweating. May potentiate hypoglycemic effect.
NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Indomethacin)
May reduce the hypotensive effects of Atenolol.
Calcium channel blockers (e.g., Verapamil, Diltiazem)
Increased risk of bradycardia, heart block, and hypotension. Caution advised with concomitant use.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe bradycardia, hypotension, acute heart failure, bronchospasm, and hypoglycemia. Management involves symptomatic and supportive measures. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered. Atropine, glucagon, and intravenous fluids may be administered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category D: Atenolol crosses the placental barrier and has been associated with fetal growth retardation, bradycardia, and hypoglycemia. It is excreted into breast milk. Use during pregnancy and lactation is not recommended unless potential benefits outweigh risks, and under strict medical supervision.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Atenolol or any component of the formulation
- Bradycardia (heart rate <45 bpm)
- Second- or third-degree heart block
- Cardiogenic shock
- Uncontrolled heart failure
- Untreated pheochromocytoma
- Metabolic acidosis
Drug Interactions
Clonidine
Concomitant use may increase the risk of rebound hypertension upon clonidine withdrawal. If both are withdrawn, beta-blocker should be stopped first.
Insulin and oral hypoglycemics
Atenolol may mask symptoms of hypoglycemia (e.g., tachycardia), but not sweating. May potentiate hypoglycemic effect.
NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Indomethacin)
May reduce the hypotensive effects of Atenolol.
Calcium channel blockers (e.g., Verapamil, Diltiazem)
Increased risk of bradycardia, heart block, and hypotension. Caution advised with concomitant use.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe bradycardia, hypotension, acute heart failure, bronchospasm, and hypoglycemia. Management involves symptomatic and supportive measures. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered. Atropine, glucagon, and intravenous fluids may be administered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category D: Atenolol crosses the placental barrier and has been associated with fetal growth retardation, bradycardia, and hypoglycemia. It is excreted into breast milk. Use during pregnancy and lactation is not recommended unless potential benefits outweigh risks, and under strict medical supervision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies and Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by FDA and DGDA
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Atenolol has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy in hypertension, angina, and post-myocardial infarction. Ongoing research may explore new formulations or specific patient populations.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood pressure monitoring (regularly)
- Heart rate monitoring (regularly)
- Renal function tests (especially in elderly or renal impaired patients)
- Blood glucose levels (in diabetic patients)
Doctor Notes
- Assess cardiac function and blood pressure regularly.
- Exercise caution in patients with asthma, COPD, or peripheral arterial disease.
- Monitor diabetic patients closely for signs of hypoglycemia.
- Gradual tapering is crucial upon discontinuation to prevent adverse cardiac events.
Patient Guidelines
- Take A-card exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor, as it can worsen your condition.
- Report any unusual side effects or worsening of symptoms to your doctor immediately.
- If you are diabetic, monitor your blood glucose levels closely as Atenolol may mask some symptoms of low blood sugar.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
A-card may cause dizziness or fatigue, especially at the beginning of treatment or when changing doses. If affected, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet low in sodium and saturated fats.
- Engage in regular physical activity as advised by your doctor.
- Limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking.
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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