Etnol
Generic Name
Atenolol
Manufacturer
Alpha Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| etnol 50 mg tablet | ৳ 0.78 | ৳ 7.80 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Atenolol is a beta-blocker primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), angina (chest pain), and certain heart rhythm disorders. It works by affecting the body's response to nerve impulses, especially in the heart.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Hypertension: Initially 50 mg once daily, may be increased to 100 mg once daily after 1-2 weeks. Angina: 50 mg once daily, may be increased to 100 mg once daily after 1 week.
Elderly
Start with lower doses, e.g., 25 mg once daily, especially if renal function is impaired. Dose adjustment based on clinical response and renal function.
Renal_impairment
Creatinine clearance 15-35 mL/min: 50 mg every other day. Creatinine clearance <15 mL/min: 50 mg every 4 days. Hemodialysis patients: 50 mg after each dialysis.
How to Take
Take orally, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water. It is recommended to take it at the same time each day. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
Mechanism of Action
Atenolol selectively blocks beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart. This reduces heart rate, myocardial contractility, and cardiac output, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. It also inhibits renin release from the kidneys.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Oral: 1 hour for antihypertensive effect. IV: within 5 minutes.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys. About 50% of an oral dose is excreted in urine within 24 hours.
Half life
6-7 hours in individuals with normal renal function. Can be significantly prolonged in renal impairment.
Absorption
Approximately 50% absorbed orally. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 2-4 hours. Food does not significantly affect absorption.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized by the liver (less than 10% of an oral dose).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Known hypersensitivity to atenolol or other beta-blockers
- •Sinus bradycardia (heart rate <45 bpm)
- •Second or third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block
- •Cardiogenic shock
- •Decompensated heart failure
- •Sick sinus syndrome
- •Severe peripheral arterial disease
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
May increase digoxin levels and enhance bradycardia.
Clonidine
Concomitant use may increase the risk of rebound hypertension upon clonidine withdrawal.
Insulin and oral hypoglycemics
Atenolol may mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia (e.g., tachycardia) and prolong hypoglycemic response.
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, indomethacin)
May reduce the antihypertensive effect of atenolol.
Calcium channel blockers (e.g., verapamil, diltiazem)
Increased risk of bradycardia, hypotension, and AV block. Avoid concomitant use or monitor closely.
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 cardiac failure, bronchospasm, and hypoglycemia. Management involves symptomatic and supportive measures. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered. Atropine, glucagon, or intravenous fluids may be administered as needed.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category D: Atenolol can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. It has been associated with intrauterine growth retardation and neonatal bradycardia. Should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Lactation: Atenolol is excreted in breast milk. Due to potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Globally approved, widely used
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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