Drug reference
atenolol
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Cardiovascular (Beta Blockers)
Mechanism of action
Blocks response to beta-adrenergic stimulation; cardioselective for beta1 receptors at low doses, with little or no effect on beta2 receptors
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Bradycardia
- Hypotension
- Cold extremities
- Depression
- Postural hypotension
- Dreaming
Boxed warnings
- Ischemic heart disease may be exacerbated after abrupt withdrawal Hypersensitivity to catecholamines has been observed during withdrawal Exacerbation of angina and, in some cases, MI may occur after abrupt discontinuance When long-term beta blocker therapy (particularly with ischemic heart disease) is discontinued, dosage should be gradually reduced over 1-2 weeks with careful monitoring If angina worsens markedly or acute coronary insufficiency develops, beta-blocker administration should be promptly reinitiated, at least temporarily (in addition to other measures appropriate for…
Contraindications
- 2°/3° heart block in patients without pacemaker Cardiogenic shock Sinus bradycardia Sinus node dysfunction Hypersensitivity Uncompensated cardiac failure Pulmonary edema
Known interactions (3)
- atenolol + verapamil Major
- atenolol + doxazosin Moderate
- atenolol + nifedipine Moderate
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is atenolol?
atenolol belongs to: Cardiovascular.
How does atenolol work?
Blocks response to beta-adrenergic stimulation; cardioselective for beta1 receptors at low doses, with little or no effect on beta2 receptors
What are the common side effects of atenolol?
Nausea, Bradycardia, Hypotension, Cold extremities, Depression, Postural hypotension, Dreaming
Which drugs interact with atenolol?
verapamil, doxazosin, nifedipine
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