What is atenolol (Tenormin) used for?

Atenolol is a beta-blocker. It is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), prevent angina pectoris (chest pain), and improve the chances of survival in people who have had a heart attack. Other uses of this medication include treating alcohol withdrawal, irregular heartbeat, and heart failure.

How does atenolol (Tenormin) work?

Atenolol works by widening the blood vessels and causing the heart rate to slow down. This makes it easier for the blood to flow and decreases blood pressure.

What are atenolol (Tenormin) doses?

Atenolol is available as an oral tablet in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg doses.

The usual initial dose of atenolol is 50 mg once a day, given either alone or in combination with other medications. The full benefit of the medicine is usually seen in 1-2 weeks. If the 50 mg oral tablet does not adequately control your blood pressure or chest pain, your doctor may increase the atenolol dose to 100 mg once a day. In patients with known or suspected acute myocardial infarction (heart attack), atenolol is given by intravenous injection.