Tenormin

Generic name: Atenolol

What is Tenormin?

Tenormin is used to treat angina (chest pain caused by too little oxygen reaching the heart muscle), high blood pressure, and heart attack.

What is the most important information I should know about Tenormin?

You must take Tenormin regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Tenormin. You must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Tenormin does not cure high blood pressure. It only keeps it under control.

Tenormin should not be stopped suddenly. It can result in increased chest pain and heart attack. When stopping the drug, your doctor will gradually reduce your dosage.

Who should not take Tenormin?

Do not take Tenormin if you have a slow heartbeat, a history of serious heart block (conduction disorder), inadequate blood supply to the circulatory system (cardiogenic shock), heart failure, or if you are sensitive to any component of the drug.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Tenormin?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Tenormin. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have asthma, diabetes, kidney disease, heart failure, thyroid disease, diabetes, an adrenal gland tumor, or are undergoing major surgery.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

High Blood Pressure

Adults: The usual starting dose is 50 milligrams (mg) daily either alone or in combination with a diuretic. Full effects should be seen in 1 to 2 weeks. If an optimal response is not achieved, your doctor may increase the dose to 100 mg daily.

Angina Pectoris

Adults: The usual starting dose is 50 mg daily. Full effects should be seen in 1 week. Your dose may be increased to 100 mg per day. In some cases, a single dose of 200 mg per day may be given.

Heart Attack

Adults: Your doctor will determine the proper dosage.

If you have kidney problems, the doctor will start you on a lower dose, usually 25 mg once a day up to a maximum of 50 mg daily.

How should I take Tenormin?

Tenormin is available as tablets, syrup, and as an injection.

It is very important to take this medicine as often as your doctor has told you to, even if you do not feel ill. This is because heart and blood pressure problems, if not treated, can get progressively worse.

Tenormin can be taken with or without food.

What should I avoid while taking Tenormin?

Try not to miss any doses. If this medication is not taken regularly, your condition may worsen.

Avoid activities that require full mental alertness until you know how you respond to the drug.

Avoid using alcohol because it may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking this medication.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Tenormin?

If Tenormin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Tenormin with the following: calcium blocking drugs (such as diltiazem and verapamil), clonidine, diabetes drugs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen or indomethacin), reserpine

What are the possible side effects of Tenormin?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: dizziness, fatigue, nausea, slow heartbeat

Tenormin may mask the symptoms of low blood sugar or alter blood sugar levels.

Can I receive Tenormin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Tenormin may cause harm to a developing baby. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Tenormin appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. Do not breastfeed while you are taking Tenormin.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Tenormin?

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is within 8 hours of your next scheduled dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Tenormin?

Store at room temperature away from light.