Generic name:atenolol [ a-TEN-oh-lol ]
Drug class:Cardioselective beta blockers
What is Tenormin?
Tenormin is a beta-blocker that affects the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins).
Tenormin is used to treat angina (chest pain) and hypertension (high blood pressure).
Tenormin is also used to lower the risk of death after a heart attack.
Warnings
You should not use Tenormin if you have a serious heart condition such as "AV block," very slow heartbeats, or heart failure.
Do not stop taking Tenormin without first talking to your doctor. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.
If you need to have any type of surgery, you may need to temporarily stop using Tenormin. Be sure the surgeon knows ahead of time that you are using this medicine.
Tenormin can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol, which could increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Tenormin.
Tenormin is only part of a complete program of treatment for hypertension that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely if you are being treated for hypertension.
If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication even if you feel fine. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Tenormin if you are allergic to atenolol, or if you have:
a serious heart condition such as "AV b...