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Atenolol
Warning:
If you have angina or have had heart problems, do not suddenly stop using
Atenolol without first consulting your doctor. If your doctor decides
you should no longer use this medication, you must stop Atenolol gradually
according to your doctor's instructions.
Uses:
Atenolol is used for chest pain (angina), high blood pressure and irregular
heartbeats.
How to Take:
Take Atenolol exactly as prescribed. Try to take it at the same time(s)
each day. Do not suddenly stop taking Atenolol without consulting your
doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped.
Side Effects:
You may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, and blurred
vision as your body adjusts to the medication. Use caution engaging in
activities requiring alertness. Because beta-blockers reduce blood circulation
to the extremities, your hands and feet may be more susceptible to the
cold. Dress warm. Inform your doctor if you develop: easy bruising or
bleeding, swollen hands or feet, confusion, depression, a sore throat.
In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek
medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other
effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions:
Before taking Atenolol, tell your doctor if you have a history of: heart
disease, kidney disease, liver disease, asthma, bronchitis, emphysema,
any other lung disease, diabetes, overactive thyroid gland, any drug allergies.
Before having surgery, tell the doctor or dentist in charge that you are
taking a beta-blocker. Atenolol should be used only if clearly needed
during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Atenolol
is excreted into breast milk and though no problems have been noted, the
possibility for adverse effects to the infant exists. Consult your doctor
before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may
use, especially of: diuretics, cold preparations and nasal decongestants,
reserpine, other heart or high blood pressure medications. Do not start
or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or
emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include usually fast
or slow heartbeat, dizziness, slow or shallow breathing, seizures, unconsciousness,
weakness, or fatigue.
Notes:
Your doctor may want you to take your pulse each day while you take Atenolol.
Learn how to monitor your pulse.
Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered but not if it is within
4 hours of next dose (8 hours for penbutolol, atenolol, nadolol). If it
is, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not
"double-up" the dose to catch up.
Storage:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and
30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other
healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the
use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult
your healthcare professional before taking the product.
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