TENORMIN – Atenolol

Tenormin Medicine Used For

Tenormin (Atenolol) is a beta-blocker that is prescribed to lower blood pressure, lower heart rate, reduce chest pain (angina), and to reduce the risk of recurrent heart attacks.

Directions for Tenormin

The dosage for Tenormin is different for different patients and is decided by the doctor. The medication should be taken at the same time every day.

How Tenormin medication works

Tenormin treatment should never be stopped abruptly without medical advice as this may lead to worsening of condition. Driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities while on this medication may lead to dizziness or drowsiness and so should be done with caution. Patients with asthma, heart problems such as low blood pressure, a slow heart rate, heart block, sick sinus syndrome, a pacemaker, heart failure, or any other heart problems, diabetes, depression, thyroid disease, kidney or liver disease, or any type of circulatory disease should inform their doctor before starting on Tenormin as these conditions may require dosage changes and constant monitoring during treatment. This medication is listed in the pregnancy category D of the FDA and is known to be harmful to a developing baby. If taken by pregnant women, it may cause low birth weight and other effects in the new born and so should not be taken without proper medical advice and guidance. Tenormin passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby leading to slow heart rates. Lactating mothers should first talk to their doctor before starting on this medication. Alcohol should be used with caution as it may lead to an increase in drowsiness and dizziness caused by this medication.

Tenormin medication’s side effects

As with all other medications, Tenormin also has its side effects which may or may not include any or all of the following: wheezing or shortness of breath, an unusually slow or irregular heart beat, swelling of your feet and/or lower legs, leg pain or cramping, sudden weight gain (more than 2 pounds in one day or 5 pounds in one week), chest (heart) pain, cold or blue feet and hands, skin rashes, fatigue or confusion, headache or dizziness, weak pulse or mildly slow heart rate, diarrhea, constipation, gas, nausea, vomiting, depression, nightmares, or impotence (difficulty obtaining or maintaining an erection). It is advisable to seek immediate medical attention if any of the above side effects become aggravated or cause undue discomfort.

Other Tenormin information

Tenormin can be taken with or without food but should be taken at the same time everyday as far as possible. The tablets should not be crushed, broken or chewed but should be swallowed whole.