Atenolol is one of the beta-blockers. It is used primarily for the treatment of arterial hypertension (high blood pressure) and for some types of cardiac arrhythmias.
What is atenolol?
Atenolol is one of the beta-blockers. It is used primarily to treat arterial hypertension (high blood pressure) and some types of cardiac arrhythmias. Atenolol is a drug that belongs to the cardioselective beta-1 blockers. Beta-blockers inhibit the so-called beta-adrenoceptors. These are receptor molecules that act on the messenger substances of the sympathetic nervous system, norepinephrine and epinephrine, or block their action. These two substances are also known as stress hormones and are responsible, among other things, for accelerating the heartbeat. The structural components of beta blockers are similar to those of these two messenger substances. As a result, drugs with this group of active ingredients are used as competitive antagonists without triggering the effects of adrenaline and noradrenaline. The administration of the active substance can have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. As a cardioselective beta-blocker, the action of atenolol predominantly starts at the heart.
Pharmacologic Action
The effect of atenolol is achieved directly at the sinus node and thus directly at the heart. The sinus node is also known as the heart‘s clock generator. Via it, the active ingredient atenolol can reduce the transmission of electrical impulses. There, the active ingredient ensures that the heartbeat is reduced in terms of force and frequency. This mode of action allows the heart to be relieved. In the case of existing cardiac arrhythmias, for example, this can help the heart to return to its usual rhythm. In addition to the effect on the heartbeat, the administration of atenolol also has a blood pressure-lowering effect. The active ingredient also influences the so-called beta-1 receptors in the kidneys. This inhibits the release of the hormone renin. This hormone has a blood pressure-increasing effect on the body. By taking atenolol, it should be noted that the signs of hyperthyroidism can be masked. This is equally true of the otherwise typical symptoms of hypoglycemia, which can occur in patients with diabetes mellitus.
Medical application and use
The preparation with the active ingredient atenolol can be used both for the treatment of existing diseases of the heart and for prevention. Frequently, atenolol finds application in the treatment of some specific cardiac arrhythmias. It is also used to treat angina pectoris and coronary heart disease. For preventive purposes, the drug is used, for example, in cases of high blood pressure to prevent heart problems. Depending on the type of dosage, this substance is also used to treat heart and circulatory problems. When administered in tablet form, atenolol takes effect after just a few hours. The active ingredient can be quickly absorbed by the body via the gastrointestinal tract and develop its effect. Atenolol’s mode of action can be accelerated by administering the drug via injection into the veins. This means that the effect can be felt within a few minutes. Due to the rapid mode of action, the drug can not only be used in the long term, but it is also used for emergency treatment. This measure is carried out in the case of acute heart disorders, such as heart attacks. The administration of the drug must always be medically monitored, as blood sugar and blood count must be checked regularly. Liver and kidney function should also be subject to certain controls during therapy so that any complications can be detected quickly.
Risks and side effects
Taking atenolol may reduce your ability to react. This may affect working and operating machinery and driving. Other risks from taking atenolol include that allergies and circulatory and renal dysfunction may be increased. An existing tendency to hypoglycemia can also be negatively supported. In some cases, allergic reactions may be triggered by taking the drug. Possible occasional side effects of atenolol include headache, visual and sleep disturbances as well as fatigue and dizziness.Gastrointestinal discomfort, muscle weakness, hallucinations and some other side effects may also occur depending on the dosage and type of drug. Less frequently, side effects such as shortness of breath, erectile dysfunction, or dry mouth are noted.
