Atenolol is one of a group of medications called beta-blockers that may be used to treat heart-related conditions such as high blood pressure, chest pain and heart failure. The medication is available in tablet and intravenous form. It may be given by itself or in combination with other drugs.
Lowers Blood Pressure
Atenolol, like other medications in the beta-blocker class, blocks the effects of epinephrine, also known as adrenaline. Atenolol slows the rate and force of the heartbeat and relaxes the blood vessels, according to MayoClinic.com, resulting in lower blood pressure and better blood flow.
Atenolol does not cure high blood pressure. Patients must follow their doctor's instructions regarding weight loss, diet and exercise carefully to reduce the risk of hypertension-related complications, including stroke.
Prevents Chest Pain
The effects of Atenolol on the heart and blood vessels also helps to prevent angina pectoris---chest pain---caused by lack of oxygen to the heart muscle due to clogging of the arteries.
Atenolol controls angina but does not cure it, according to the National Institutes of Health, so the patient must continue taking the medication even if he feels well. Stopping the medication suddenly may cause chest pain or heart attack, according to Drugs.com.
Improves Survival After Heart Attack
Atenolol may be given intravenously to reduce the risk of death after a heart attack, according to the American Heart Association. The heart's normal response after injury is to try to pump faster, placing more strain on the heart. Atenolol slows the heart rate, controls abnormal heart rhythms and lowers the blood pressure. For long-term treatment of mild to moderate heart failure, the health care provider will prescribe the oral form of the medication.
Side Effects
Side effects of Atenolol are caused by the slowing of the heart rate, according to the American Heart Association, which reduces the amount of oxygen circulating in the bloodstream. These side effects may include nausea and weakness for more than a day after strenuous activity, impaired thinking, dizziness, headaches, worsening of asthma symptoms and hypotension---blood pressure that is too low.
Rare but serious side effects, according to Drugs.com, include slow or uneven pulse, fainting, shortness of breath, swelling in the ankles or feet, depression or sensitivity to cold. Less serious side effects include sleep problems, decreased sex drive, anxiety or nervousness.
Allergic Reactions
Patients should get emergency medical help for signs of an allergic reaction---difficulty breathing, hives or swelling of the face, lips or tongue.
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