May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z High Blood Pressure Atenolol: Common Indications and Side Effects
Atenolol: Common Indications and Side Effects |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: I have been on Atenlol for along time for High Blood Pressure. My doctor recently took me off of it because he says he has learned it doesn't affect teh pressure in the heart.I have searched on line for some information about this and cannot find anything. Is this drug still a recommended treatment for high blood pressure? Yes, it is still being used for hypertension however it is in the fourth line of hypertensive drugs. Several years ago, this was the first line drug but studies have shown that it can provoke diabetes that’s why it has been downgraded as 4th line agents for hypertension. I am sure your doctor has weighed the risks vs benefits before he/she started prescribing you Atenolol. Atenolol decreases the heart rate and subsequently, the blood pressure. It still has a role in some anxiety disorders and other heart conditions. If you have a history of diabetes in the family (aunts, uncles, siblings, parents) then it is a very wise thing to stop Atenolol. May I ask if you were given another type of anti-hypertensive? There are newer and better antihypertensives now which are more effective and with lesser side effects. Lifestyle modifications (dietary restrictions and moderate exercise) are also very helpful in controlling high blood pressure. You may ask your doctor about this. I do hope I have answered your question. Take care always. |
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| Last Updated ( Wednesday, 25 May 2011 ) |
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