About the Effects of Atenolol

Atenolol is a prescription drug which is prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) and chest pain (angina). Atenolol is also used in the treatment and prevention of heart attack. Certain side effects, such as shortness of breath, feeling lightheaded and uneven heartbeat require immediate medical care.

Dosage

• Atenolol should be taken exactly as directed. Do not alter or skip a dose of Atenolol, and do not double up on it if you miss a dose, as this can cause Atenolol overdose. Symptoms of Atenolol overdose include breath shortness, feeling dizzy or weak, fainting, seizure, or an unsteady heart rate. It is important that you take Atenolol with a full glass of water, at the same time each day so that the medication will always stay working in your system.

Severe Side Effects

• Severe side effects of Atenolol can be fatal and require immediate medical attention. Seek emergency assistance if you experience a feeling of lightheadedness or fainting, shortness of breath, uneven heart rate or heart pounding/racing, sudden swelling of your feet or ankles, stomach pain, appetite loss nausea/vomiting or a discoloration of your skin or eyes (jaundice). Atenolol can cause depression symptoms to appear or worsen, be sure to seek emergency help if you have feelings of harming yourself or others.

Mild/Moderate Side Effects

• Occasionally, Atenolol is associated with side effects considered to be mild or moderate. Mild or moderate effects require that you discuss the problem with your doctor, but you may not need to seek emergency medical care. Talk to your doctor if you experience sleeping difficulties (such as inability to fall asleep), or have been feeling more tired than usual. Atenolol can also cause nervousness or anxiety to occur, be sure to mention to your doctor if you have been experiencing either as a result of taking Atenolol. Sexual side effects are more likely to occur after using Atenolol, and it is possible to experience impotence or a decreased interest in sex, or difficulty achieving climax as a result of Atenolol.

Interactions

• Some conditions may interact with Atenolol and cause complications. Do not take Atenolol if you suffer from certain conditions without first discussing them with your doctor. Conditions which might be affected by Atenolol usage include breathing or pulmonary problems such as asthma and emphysema, diabetes or hypoglycemia (low blood glucose), as well as any heart problems like slow heart rate or heart failure. Other complications might occur as a result of liver and kidney disorders, thyroid disease or circulatory problems. Tell your doctor if you suffer from these or any other conditions before you start taking Atenolol.

Warning

• Taking Atenolol can cause your judgment to become affected. Be careful operating your car or any machinery while taking Atenolol. Also, be aware that hypertension (high blood pressure) sometimes does not have any symptoms, so you may not realize you need the medication. It is important that you keep taking Atenolol, even when you are not experiencing sickness, as you need the medicine even when you are not physically aware of it. Atenolol should be stored away from heat or direct sunlight.