Tenormin (Atenolol)

Do’s

• Take Tenormin by mouth with or without food as directed by your healthcare provider, usually 1 to 2 times daily.
• The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. 
• Use this medication regularly to derive the most benefit from it. Take it at the same time(s) each day and continue taking it even if you feel well, as most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.
• If Tenormin is used for chest pain, it must be taken regularly to be effective. 
• Use other medications (such as nitroglycerin placed under the tongue) to relieve chest pain when it occurs as directed by your healthcare provider.
• It may take 1 to 2 weeks before you experience the full benefit of this medication. Inform your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve or worsens (e.g., if your blood pressure readings remain high or increase, or if your chest pain occurs more frequently).

Don’ts

• Avoid consuming apple or orange juice within 4 hours of taking Tenormin, as it may prevent your body from fully absorbing the medication unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider.
• Tenormin should not be used to treat chest pain when it occurs. 

Common Side Effects:

• Cold hands or feet
• Dizziness
• Tiredness
• Depressed mood

Less Common Side Effects:

• New or worsening chest pain
• Slow or uneven heartbeats
• Light-headed feeling, like you might pass out
• Shortness of breath (even with mild exertion), swelling, rapid weight gain

This is not a complete list of side effects, and individuals should consult their healthcare provider for more information and guidance.

Consult a healthcare provider before taking Tenormin and any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Tenormin is contraindicated in certain conditions, including sinus bradycardia, heart block greater than first degree, cardiogenic shock, overt cardiac failure, and in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to atenolol or any of the drug product's components.

Dosage should be adjusted in cases of severe impairment of renal function. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

Caution should be exercised when Tenormin is administered during pregnancy or to a woman who is breastfeeding.

Adhere to these warnings and precautions and consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of Tenormin.