Atenolol is a commonly prescribed medication for patients who have high blood pressure and other risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Atenolol is a member of a type of medication known as beta-blockers, which relax the blood vessels and also signal for the heart to beat more slowly and with less force. Although generally safe, this medication can cause certain side effects.
Gastrointestinal
Atenolol can cause mild disruption of the digestive system. This can lead to nausea and diarrhea, MedlinePlus notes.
Reduced Peripheral Circulation
Atenolol slows the heart rate and relaxes blood vessels. This can cause a patient's fingers and toes to experience reduced blood flow. Although this decreased blood flow does not cause damage to the tissue, it can cause the tips of the fingers and toes to tingle, or feel cold and numb.
Neurological
Atenolol can also lead to decreased blood flow to the brain. In more mild cases, this can cause dizziness, vertigo or lightheadedness, RxList explains. In more severe cases, fainting can occur. These symptoms are more likely to occur when someone using atenolol stands up suddenly after being in a seated or reclined position for a long period of time; this is often termed postural hypotension.
Allergic
Patients taking atenolol may also suffer from an allergic reaction to the drug or any other component. Allergic reactions can result in the development of a rash or hives anywhere on the body, eMedTV notes. Patients may also experience swelling of the lips, face and tongue, which is indicative of a more serious reaction. The most serious allergic reaction can result in swelling of the airways, making breathing difficult.
Lower Extremity Swelling
Because atenolol slows the heart rate, it decreases the force with which blood is forced through the body. This can cause blood to pool in the legs, ankles and feet as these parts of the body require the force of the heartbeat to help propel blood against the flow of gravity. This can cause swelling in the lower extremities, as well as unintended weight gain due to fluid accumulation.
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