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Drugs Dictionary: Atenolol

Atenolol

Trade Name

Tenormin (primary brand name); generic atenolol

Classification

Beta-adrenergic blocker; selective β1-blocker; antihypertensive, antianginal

Dosage/Route

  • * Dosage: Tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg
  • * Route: Oral (PO); IV available but less common in outpatient settings

Usual Dosage

  • * Hypertension: 25-50 mg PO once daily; max 100 mg/day
  • * Angina: 50 mg PO once daily; may increase to 100 mg/day; max 200 mg/day
  • * Post-MI: 50-100 mg PO daily (start IV in acute setting, transition to PO)
  • * Elderly/Renal Impairment: Start 25 mg/day; adjust if CrCl <35 mL/min

Mechanism of Action

Selectively blocks β1-adrenergic receptors in the heart, reducing heart rate, myocardial contractility, and cardiac output. Lowers blood pressure and oxygen demand; slows AV conduction, aiding arrhythmia control

Side Effects & Adverse Effects

  • * Side Effects: Fatigue, dizziness, bradycardia, cold hands/feet
  • * Adverse Effects:
    •      – Severe bradycardia or heart block (esp. with overdose)
    •      – Hypotension (orthostatic)
    •      – Bronchospasm (less likely, but caution in asthma/COPD)
    •      – Masking hypoglycemia signs (diabetics); rebound HTN if stopped abruptly

Nursing Management (Implications & Teachings)

  • * Implications:
    •      – Monitor HR, BP before each dose (hold if HR <50-60 bpm or SBP <90 mmHg, per protocol)
    •      – Assess for heart failure signs (dyspnea, edema) or respiratory issues
    •      – Check pulse in extremities (peripheral effects)
    •      – Avoid in uncompensated HF or severe bradycardia
  • * Teachings:
    •      – Take same time daily, with/without food
    •      – Rise slowly to avoid dizziness
    •      – Report slow pulse, shortness of breath, or fainting
    •      – Don’t stop suddenly—taper over 1-2 weeks

Indication for This Patient

  • * Hypertension (chronic management)
  • * Angina pectoris (reduces chest pain frequency)
  • * Post-myocardial infarction (improves survival, started IV then PO)

Time

  • * Timing: Once daily (morning or evening, consistent)
  • * Onset: 1-2 hours
  • * Peak: 2-4 hours
  • * Duration: 24 hours

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