What it does
Atenolol is a medication that helps lower blood pressure and control heart rate.
Commonly used for: high blood pressure (hypertension), chest pain (angina), irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
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Source: Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-03-12 00:05:10 · updated 2026-09-28 03:37:02
About this medicine
Atenolol is a medication that helps lower blood pressure and control heart rate.
What it treats
- high blood pressure (hypertension)
- chest pain (angina)
- irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
How it works
Atenolol works by blocking certain receptors in the heart, which helps to reduce the heart's workload and lower blood pressure.
Who it's for
This medication is for adults who need help managing their blood pressure or heart conditions.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: ateneolol
Atenolol is a selective beta-1 adrenergic antagonist, primarily used in the management of hypertension, angina pectoris, and certain types of arrhythmias. It works by blocking beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart, leading to a decrease in heart rate and contractility, thereby reducing myocardial oxygen demand. It is also used for the prevention of migraines and in the management of anxiety disorders.
Indications
- Hypertension
- Angina pectoris
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
- Migraine prophylaxis
- Anxiety disorders
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for specific dosing guidelines.
Adults: Refer to BNF for specific dosing guidelines.
Mechanism of action
Atenolol selectively blocks beta-1 adrenergic receptors located primarily in cardiac tissue. By inhibiting these receptors, atenolol decreases heart rate, reduces myocardial contractility, and lowers blood pressure. It also inhibits the release of renin from the kidneys, which contributes to its antihypertensive effects.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of atenolol include reduced heart rate, decreased myocardial contractility, and lowered blood pressure. These effects lead to decreased oxygen demand by the heart muscle. Atenolol's action can also help in the management of anxiety symptoms and prevent migraine headaches due to its ability to modulate adrenergic activity.
Pharmacokinetics
Atenolol is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with a bioavailability of around 50-60%. It is primarily eliminated by renal excretion, with a half-life of approximately 6-7 hours. The drug is minimally metabolized by the liver. Plasma protein binding is about 6-16%. Atenolol reaches peak plasma concentrations within 2 to 4 hours after oral administration.
Contra-indications
- Severe bradycardia
- Heart block greater than first degree
- Cardiogenic shock
- Uncompensated heart failure
- Severe peripheral arterial disease
- Asthma or a history of bronchospasm
Adverse effects
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Depression
- Bradycardia
- Hypotension
- Cold extremities
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Sleep disturbances
Interactions
- Calcium channel blockers may enhance the hypotensive effect
- Concomitant use with other antihypertensives may lead to additive effects
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce the antihypertensive effect
- Caution should be exercised when used with drugs that lower heart rate
Precautions
- Monitor heart rate and blood pressure regularly during treatment
- Use with caution in patients with diabetes, as it may mask hypoglycemic symptoms
- Patients with a history of depression should be monitored closely
Pregnancy
Atenolol should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It may affect fetal heart rate and blood flow.
Breast-feeding
Atenolol is excreted in breast milk. Caution should be exercised when administering to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg
- Oral solution: 5 mg/ml
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.