Atenolol is a selective ß1 receptor antagonist, a drug belonging to the group of beta blockers (sometimes written ß-blockers), a category of drugs used primarily in cardiovascular disorder. Introduced in 1976, atenolol was developed as a replacement for propranolol in the treatment of hypertension. The chemical works by slowing down the heart and reducing its workload. Unlike propranolol, atenolol does not pass through the blood–brain barrier thus avoiding various central nervous system side effects.
Atenolol is one of the most commonly used ß-blockers in the United Kingdom and was once the first-line treatment for hypertension.
Indications :
It is used for a number of situation including : hypertension, angina, Long cough, acute myocardial infarction, supraventricular tachycardia,ventricular tachycardia, and the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.
It is also used to treat the symptoms of Graves' disease until anti thyroid drug can take effect.
Due to its hydrophilic properties, the drug is less suitable in migraine prophylaxis compared to propranolol, because, for this indication, atenolol would have to reach the brain in high concentrations, which is not the case.
Hypertension :
Atenolol is currently suggested only in special circumstances as complementary medicine in hypertension. More frequently one or more of ACE Inhibitors, calcium antagonists and or diuretics are used as first line remedy.
Contraindications :
These products are contraindicated in following cases :
- bradycardia (pulse less than 60 bpm)
- cardiogenic shock
- asthma (may cause broncho-constriction).
- Symptomatic hypotension (blood pressure of less than 90/60 mm Hg with dizziness, vertigo etc.)
- angina of the Prinzmetal type (vasospastic angina)
- metabolic acidosis (a severe condition with a more acidic blood than normal)
- severe disorders in peripheral arterial circulation
- Atrioventricular blockage of second and third degree (a particular form of arrhythmia)
- acutely decompensated congestive heart failure (symptoms may be fluid retention with peripheral edema and/or abdominal fluid retention (ascites), and/or lung edema)
- sick sinus syndrome (a particular form of arrhythmia)
- hypersensitivity and/or allergy to atenolol
- pheochromocytoma (a rare type of tumor of the adrenal glands)
- Atenolol should not be taken by patients with preexisting bronchial asthma.
- These drugs may retard fetal growth and possibly cause other abnormalities, and is classified by FDA in pregnancy category D. It should be used during pregnancy only if absolutely necessary.
Side effects :
It causes considerably fewer central nervous system side effects (depression, nightmares).
It was the main ß-blocker identified as carrying a higher risk of provoking type 2 diabetes, leading to its downgrading in the United Kingdom in June 2006 to fourth-line agent in the management of hypertension. In addition, ß-blockers blunt the usual sympathetic nervous system response to hypoglycemia (i.e. sweating, agitation, tachycardia). These drugs therefore have an ability to mask a dangerously low blood sugar, which further decreases their safety and utility in diabetic patients.
Side effects have been known to include the following :
- indigestion, constipation
- dry mouth
- vertigo or faintness (especially cases of orthostatic hypotension)
- cold extremities
- erectile dysfunction
- rhinitis
- sadness
- confusion
- sleeplessness, nightmares
- tiredness, weakness or lack of energy
- edema
Storage :
Store at room temperature. Protect from heat, light and moisture. Keep away from reach of children.
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