Atenolol works by competing for receptor sites on, in atenolol's case, cardiac muscle. This slows down the strength of the heart`s contractions and reduces its oxygen requirements and the volume of blood it has to pump. Hypertension (high blood pressure) may be treated with these drugs because of their ability to increase the diameter of the blood vessels thus allowing blood to flow under less pressure. Some of these medicines include a diuretic to help reduce blood pressure by increasing the body`s excretion of excess fluid. Beta blockers are also used to treat Myocardial infarction (heart attack) and Arrhythmias (rhythm disorders), angina (chest pains), and disorders arising from decreased circulation and vascular constriction, including migraine.
Atenolol is used alone or in combination with other medications as a high blood pressure medicine. It also is used to prevent angina (chest pain) and treat heart attacks. Atenolol is in a class of medications called beta blockers. It works by slowing the heart rate and relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does not have to pump as hard.
Atenolol comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day. To help you remember to take atenolol, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take atenolol exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Atenolol controls high blood pressure and angina but does not cure them. It is a high blood pressure medicine. It may take 1-2 weeks before you feel the full benefit of atenolol. Continue to take atenolol even if you feel well. Do not stop taking atenolol without talking to your doctor.
Tags: high blood pressure medicine, atenolol,
medicine, medications