Ironically, a medication you take for a particular health condition can aggravate the underlying condition that causes it. Atenolol is a prime example of this. Although it helps prevent heart attacks, it can adversely affect your cholesterol levels, a major contributing factor of cardiovascular complications.
Atenolol
Atenolol belongs to a class of drugs known as beta-blockers. Doctors usually prescribe these medications for people with high blood pressure to help control the flow of blood through the arteries, thus reducing the risk for heart attack. Drugs.com recommends giving your doctor a complete medical history. Certain conditions, such as liver disease, kidney disease, depression and asthma may eliminate you as a candidate for atenolol. In some cases your doctor may still prescribe the drug, but at a lower dose.
Cholesterol Levels
Unhealthy cholesterol levels can result in heart attack. Excess cholesterol builds in your arteries, forming a substance known as plaque. The more plaque you have in your arteries, the harder your heart must work to pump blood through your body. Your total cholesterol should be under 200 mg/dL, your LDL, bad cholesterol, should be less than 129 mg/dL and your HDL, good cholesterol, is most effective when levels are higher then 60 mg/dL, according to the American Heart Association. If your total and LDL cholesterol increase, or your HDL decreases, your risk of heart disease and heart attack increases.
Side Effects of Atenolol
Every medication has side effects, some of which may affect you and some of which may not. Although the purpose of atenolol is to prevent heart attack, it can increase your total cholesterol and decrease your HDL. Drugs.com states these changes in your cholesterol levels can be dangerous for those with heart disease.
Prevention
When taking atenolol, go for regular cholesterol testing. Doing so enables your doctor to track your cholesterol levels. If major changes occur, he may choose to change the dose of your atenolol or prescribe a different medication. Following a low-fat diet rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables will help you maintain a healthy HDL and total cholesterol. Exercising for 30 minutes each day will do the same. Take a walk, ride a bike or go swimming. Due to the nature of your condition, check with your doctor first. He may decide that certain exercises are a hazard to your health.
