Atenolol
Brand: Tenormin
Key warning
Important caution: do NOT stop abruptly in coronary artery disease — abrupt withdrawal of a beta blocker can trigger angina, arrhythmia or myocardial infarction, so it is tapered. Note current Tenormin labelling carries no boxed warning, though many generic labels still show one.
Common side effects
- Slow heart rate
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Cold hands and feet
- Low blood pressure
Key interactions & cautions
- May mask low-blood-sugar signs in diabetes
- Additive effect with other blood-pressure drugs
- Caution with calcium channel blockers
- May worsen certain asthma symptoms
Counseling points
- Do not stop suddenly; taper as directed
- Check pulse as instructed
- Rise slowly to reduce dizziness
- Take at the same time each day
- Report very slow heartbeat or fainting
High-yield study aid for exam prep — not a substitute for the package insert or a pharmacist’s dispensing reference.