Questions and Answers
What is atenolol?
What is the classification of atenolol?
Antianginals, antihypertensives; beta blockers
List two uses of atenolol.
Hypertension, stable angina
What is the mechanism of action of atenolol?
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What is the pregnancy category of atenolol?
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What are the indications for using atenolol?
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What action does atenolol perform on adrenergic receptors?
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What are the pharmacokinetics of atenolol regarding absorption?
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What percentage of atenolol is excreted unchanged by the kidneys?
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Name a contraindication for atenolol.
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What is an important information regarding the use of atenolol?
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What are common side effects of atenolol?
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Name two adverse reactions related to atenolol.
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What drug interactions should be noted with atenolol?
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Study Notes
Atenolol Overview
- Atenolol, branded as Tenormin, is a beta-blocker used primarily for heart and circulatory conditions.
- It treats angina (chest pain) and hypertension (high blood pressure), and reduces death risk post-heart attack.
Classification
- Therapeutic uses include antianginals and antihypertensives.
- Pharmacologically, it belongs to the class of beta blockers.
Key Uses
- Effective in managing hypertension and stable angina.
Mechanism of Action
- Lowers heart rate and contractility, decreasing myocardial oxygen demand.
- Acts as a beta 1 selective adrenergic antagonist.
- Increases peripheral resistance, decreases plasma renin, and reduces cardiac output.
Pregnancy Category
- Classified as Category D, indicating potential risk to the fetus.
Indications
- Primarily indicated for hypertension management, treatment of angina pectoris, and prevention of myocardial infarction (MI).
Action Mechanism
- Blocks beta1-adrenergic receptors without significant effect on beta2-receptor sites.
- Therapeutic benefits include lower blood pressure, reduced heart rate, decreased angina frequency, and MI prevention.
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption ranges from 50-60% after oral administration.
- Minimal CNS penetration; crosses the placenta and enters breast milk.
Metabolism and Excretion
- 40-50% remains unchanged in the kidneys; the rest excreted in feces.
- Half-life is approximately 6-9 hours with a typical onset of action around 1 hour, peak effect at 2-4 hours, and duration of 24 hours.
Contraindications and Precautions
- Contraindicated in conditions like uncompensated heart failure, pulmonary edema, and bradycardia.
- Use cautiously in renal or hepatic impairment, elderly patients, those with pulmonary diseases, diabetes, and those with severe allergic reactions.
- May affect fetal and neonatal health; safety in lactation not established.
Important Considerations
- Do not discontinue without medical advice as it may worsen the condition.
- Inform surgeons about the use of atenolol before surgery.
- Side effects may affect alertness; caution advised in activities requiring full concentration.
- Alcohol may enhance drowsiness and dizziness.
- Essential for ongoing hypertension management, including adherence to diet and exercise.
Common Side Effects
- May experience dizziness, fatigue, or depressive moods.
Adverse Reactions
- CNS effects include fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, and mood changes.
- Cardiovascular risks include bradycardia and possible heart failure.
- Respiratory issues may arise, such as bronchospasm.
- Gastrointestinal disturbances include nausea and constipation.
- Other side effects can include erectile dysfunction and drug-induced lupus syndrome.
Drug Interactions
- Can exhibit additive myocardial depression with general anesthesia or specific drugs (e.g., IV phenytoin).
- Caution with other antihypertensives, alcohol, and concurrent use of stimulants or certain vasoconstrictors due to possible adverse effects.
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Explore essential information about Atenolol with our flashcards. These cards highlight its definition, usage, and classification as a beta-blocker. Perfect for students and healthcare professionals alike.
