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Drug interactions

Atenolol-chlorthalidone + Lily of the valley

Severity: Major

Atenolol-chlorthalidone and Lily of the valley: major interaction.

Last updated

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.

Summary

Lily of the valley contains cardiac glycosides, and thiazide-induced hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia increases sensitivity to them. This can promote arrhythmias. Atenolol may add bradycardia or AV conduction slowing.

What this interaction means in plain words

Atenolol-chlorthalidone and Lily of the valley can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Diuretic-induced hypokalemia potentiates cardiac glycoside toxicity, and beta-blockade adds to AV nodal depression.

What to do

Avoid the herbal product. If it is taken, monitor potassium, magnesium and ECG, and treat any glycoside toxicity.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Atenolol-chlorthalidone with Lily of the valley?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Atenolol-chlorthalidone and Lily of the valley can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Lily of the valley contains cardiac glycosides, and thiazide-induced hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia increases sensitivity to them. This can promote arrhythmias. Atenolol may add bradycardia or AV conduction slowing.

How serious is the interaction between Atenolol-chlorthalidone and Lily of the valley?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the herbal product. If it is taken, monitor potassium, magnesium and ECG, and treat any glycoside toxicity.

What other medicines interact with Atenolol-chlorthalidone?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Atenolol-chlorthalidone with, for example, Acebutolol, Aldesleukin, Amiodarone. The full list is on the Atenolol-chlorthalidone page.

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