Abpres
Generic Name
Atenolol
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Atenolol is a cardioselective beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent used to treat hypertension, angina pectoris, and certain cardiac arrhythmias. It works by slowing down the heart rate and relaxing blood vessels.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Hypertension: Initial 25-50 mg once daily, adjusted to 50-100 mg once daily. Angina: 50-100 mg once daily. Arrhythmias: 50-100 mg once daily.
Elderly
Lower initial doses may be considered, particularly with impaired renal function.
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: 25 mg daily or 50 mg every other day.
How to Take
Administer orally, preferably at the same time each day. Can be taken with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Atenolol selectively blocks beta-1 adrenergic receptors, primarily located in the heart. This reduces heart rate, myocardial contractility, and cardiac output, leading to decreased blood pressure. It also reduces renin release from the kidneys.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1 hour (oral)
Excretion
Mainly renal, approximately 50% excreted unchanged in urine.
Half life
Approximately 6-7 hours, can be prolonged in renal impairment.
Absorption
Approximately 50% absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma levels occur 2-4 hours after an oral dose.
Metabolism
Minimal hepatic metabolism; primarily excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Sinus bradycardia
- Second or third-degree atrioventricular block
- Cardiogenic shock
- Overt cardiac failure
- Sick sinus syndrome (unless permanent pacemaker is in place)
Drug Interactions
MAO inhibitors
Possible severe hypertension.
Digitalis glycosides
Increased risk of bradycardia.
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen)
May reduce the antihypertensive effect of atenolol.
Calcium channel blockers (e.g., verapamil, diltiazem)
Increased risk of bradycardia and hypotension. Concurrent IV administration is contraindicated.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe bradycardia, hypotension, acute cardiac failure, and bronchospasm. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, including IV atropine for bradycardia, IV fluids for hypotension, and glucagon for refractory bradycardia/hypotension.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category D: Atenolol crosses the placenta and has been associated with fetal growth restriction and neonatal bradycardia. Use only if potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Excreted in breast milk, use with caution during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Sinus bradycardia
- Second or third-degree atrioventricular block
- Cardiogenic shock
- Overt cardiac failure
- Sick sinus syndrome (unless permanent pacemaker is in place)
Drug Interactions
MAO inhibitors
Possible severe hypertension.
Digitalis glycosides
Increased risk of bradycardia.
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen)
May reduce the antihypertensive effect of atenolol.
Calcium channel blockers (e.g., verapamil, diltiazem)
Increased risk of bradycardia and hypotension. Concurrent IV administration is contraindicated.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe bradycardia, hypotension, acute cardiac failure, and bronchospasm. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, including IV atropine for bradycardia, IV fluids for hypotension, and glucagon for refractory bradycardia/hypotension.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category D: Atenolol crosses the placenta and has been associated with fetal growth restriction and neonatal bradycardia. Use only if potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Excreted in breast milk, use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
3 years
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Patent expired, generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied in clinical trials for hypertension, angina, and post-MI. Ongoing research continues to explore its role in various cardiovascular conditions.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood pressure
- Heart rate
- Renal function (e.g., serum creatinine)
- Blood glucose (in diabetic patients)
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on the importance of gradual withdrawal to avoid rebound effects.
- Monitor heart rate and blood pressure regularly.
- Caution in patients with asthma or COPD due to potential for bronchospasm, even with cardioselective agents at high doses.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor.
- Take at the same time each day.
- Report any unusual side effects to your doctor.
- Avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience dizziness or fatigue.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue, particularly at the start of treatment or when the dose is increased. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet low in sodium.
- Engage in regular moderate exercise.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Manage stress.
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International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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