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What is atenolol?
What is atenolol?
What is the classification of atenolol?
What is the classification of atenolol?
Antianginals, antihypertensives; beta blockers
List two uses of atenolol.
List two uses of atenolol.
Hypertension, stable angina
What is the mechanism of action of atenolol?
What is the mechanism of action of atenolol?
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What is the pregnancy category of atenolol?
What is the pregnancy category of atenolol?
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What are the indications for using atenolol?
What are the indications for using atenolol?
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What action does atenolol perform on adrenergic receptors?
What action does atenolol perform on adrenergic receptors?
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What are the pharmacokinetics of atenolol regarding absorption?
What are the pharmacokinetics of atenolol regarding absorption?
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What percentage of atenolol is excreted unchanged by the kidneys?
What percentage of atenolol is excreted unchanged by the kidneys?
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Name a contraindication for atenolol.
Name a contraindication for atenolol.
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What is an important information regarding the use of atenolol?
What is an important information regarding the use of atenolol?
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What are common side effects of atenolol?
What are common side effects of atenolol?
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Name two adverse reactions related to atenolol.
Name two adverse reactions related to atenolol.
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What drug interactions should be noted with atenolol?
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.
