Atinic, Atenol, Atenex
Generic Name
Atenolol
Manufacturer
Generic manufacturers worldwide (e.g., Square Pharmaceuticals, Beximco Pharma in BD)
Country
Global
Loading images...
Description
Overview of the medicine
Atenolol is a beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent, primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), angina pectoris (chest pain), and certain cardiac arrhythmias. It works by affecting the response to nerve impulses in certain parts of the body, like the heart, and thus lowers heart rate and blood pressure.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 50-100 mg once daily. May be increased to 100 mg daily for hypertension or angina.
Elderly
Lower doses may be considered, starting with 25 mg daily due to potential for decreased renal function.
Renal_impairment
Dosage adjustment required based on creatinine clearance. For CrCl 15-35 mL/min, maximum 50 mg daily. For CrCl <15 mL/min, maximum 25 mg daily or 50 mg every other day.
How to Take
Take orally, with or without food. It is recommended to take it at the same time each day.
Mechanism of Action
Atenolol is a cardioselective beta-1 adrenergic antagonist. It selectively blocks beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart, leading to decreased heart rate, myocardial contractility, and cardiac output. This reduces oxygen demand and lowers blood pressure. At higher doses, its beta-1 selectivity may diminish, affecting beta-2 receptors.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Oral: 1 hour
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys (approximately 50% of an oral dose).
Half life
6-7 hours (prolonged in renal impairment)
Absorption
Incompletely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (approximately 50%).
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized by the liver (approximately 10%).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Known hypersensitivity to atenolol or other beta-blockers
- •Sinus bradycardia
- •Second or third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block
- •Cardiogenic shock
- •Decompensated heart failure
- •Sick sinus syndrome
Drug Interactions
Clonidine
If both are stopped suddenly, it can lead to rebound hypertension. Beta-blocker should be discontinued several days before clonidine.
Digitalis Glycosides
Increased risk of bradycardia.
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, indomethacin)
May reduce the antihypertensive effects of atenolol.
Calcium Channel Blockers (e.g., verapamil, diltiazem)
Increased risk of bradycardia, hypotension, and heart failure.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include severe bradycardia, hypotension, acute cardiac failure, and bronchospasm. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, including atropine for bradycardia, vasopressors for hypotension, and bronchodilators for bronchospasm.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category D. Atenolol can cause fetal harm. Avoid during pregnancy unless the potential benefit outweighs the risk. It is excreted into breast milk and may cause adverse effects in the infant. Use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24-36 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Available in pharmacies worldwide
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies globally (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
More Medicines
Explore other medicines you might be interested in