Atenolol
This information sheet from Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) describes how this medicine is given and some of its possible side effects. Each person reacts differently to medicines so your child will not necessarily experience every side effect mentioned. If you have any questions or concerns, please ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist or telephone one of the contact numbers of this information sheet.
What is it for?
Atenolol belongs to a group of medicines called beta blockers.
Atenolol is a medicine used in patients with heart problems to lower the blood pressure and lower the heart rate.
How is it given?
Atenolol is usually taken once or twice a day.
It is available as 25mg, 50mg or 100mg tablets, or a liquid (25mg in 5mLs). Small doses can be given using an oral syringe provided. It is important not to stop taking atenolol suddenly.
What are the side-effects?
Atenolol is usually well tolerated, but possible side effects include:
- Gastrointestinal disturbances such as indigestion and constipation.
- Dizziness or fainting could be a sign of low blood pressure or slow heart rate. Please see your doctor for a check if this occurs.
- Cold fingers and toes: beta blockers can reduce the blood flow to these areas.
- Headache.
- Tiredness.
- Sleep disturbances such as bad dreams and difficulty sleeping.
- Low mood.
If you are concerned about any of these side effects, please discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.
Who should not take atenolol (contraindications)?
People with the following conditions should discuss taking atenolol with their doctor:
- asthma
- kidney impairment
- diabetes or low blood glucose
- uncontrolled heart failure or heart block
- pregnant, could be pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breast-feeding
- raynaud’s disease
Atenolol and other medications
Some medicines can interact with atenolol.
Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving your child any other medicines, including herbal or complementary medicines.
The following medicines are known to react with atenolol
- other medicines that slow the heart rate such as digoxin, verapamil and diltiazem
- other medicines that reduce blood pressure such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors and calcium channel blockers
Important
- Keep medicines in a safe place where children cannot reach them.
- Keep medicines in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and away from heat.
- If your doctor decides to stop treatment with atenolol, return any unused medicine to the pharmacist. Do not flush down the toilet or throw it away.
- If you forget to give your child a dose, give it as soon as you remember. Do not give a double dose if it is already time to give the next one.
- Your family doctor (GP) will need to give you a repeat prescription for atenolol.
- Some medicines will need to be ordered by your local pharmacist - ask your GP for another prescription with enough time (when you have about 2 weeks left of medicine) to ensure you do not run out.