Atenolol is a long-acting selective beta-1 blocker indicated for hypertension and angina. Does not significantly cross the blood-brain barrier, causing fewer neuropsychiatric effects.
Also known as: Tenormin
Beta-blocker + non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker: risk of bradycardia and AV block.
Both reduce AV conduction and contractility. The combination may cause severe bradycardia, AV block, and heart failure.
ECG, heart rate, blood pressure.
Severe bradycardia, AV block.
Avoid combination. If necessary, monitor ECG and vital signs.
DailyMed/FDA; EMC-EMC PT
No documented food or drink interactions.
CONTRAINDICATED in decompensated HF.
Stabilise first.
DailyMed/FDA; EMC-EMC PT
Use only if benefit justifies risk. May cause neonatal bradycardia and hypoglycaemia.
Avoid in 3rd trimester if possible.
Excreted in breast milk. Generally compatible with breastfeeding.
Monitor neonate for bradycardia and hypoglycaemia at delivery.
DailyMed/FDA (NIH/NLM) — approved Atenolol label: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=96dd038f-b363-4e24-9c67-82b7c85c3bc4
Clinical and educational support tool. The information does not replace a medical prescription or the opinion of a qualified healthcare professional.
Selective hydrophilic beta-1 blocker with prolonged action. Lower CNS penetration compared to metoprolol and propranolol.
Selectively blocks cardiac beta-1 receptors, reducing heart rate, contractility, and AV conduction. Prolonged action allows once-daily dosing.
Oral bioavailability: ~50%. Food slightly reduces absorption. Tmax: 2-4 hours.
Not metabolised — excreted unchanged by the renal route. Does not undergo significant hepatic metabolism. Low CYP-mediated interaction potential.
6-9 hours. Elimination: >90% unchanged in urine. Adjust dose in renal impairment (GFR <35 mL/min).
Medicines from the same therapeutic group (ATC classification) or the same pharmacological class.
