What is atenolol used for

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Therapeutic Uses of Atenolol

Hypertension Management

Atenolol is widely recognized for its efficacy in managing hypertension. As a selective beta 1-adrenoceptor antagonist, it effectively reduces blood pressure in patients with all grades of hypertension, including elderly patients and pregnant women with hypertension . Comparative studies have shown that atenolol lowers blood pressure to a similar extent as other beta-adrenoceptor antagonists, ACE inhibitors, and calcium antagonists . Its long-term use has been associated with reduced cardiovascular mortality in hypertensive patients .

Angina Pectoris Treatment

Atenolol is also effective in the prophylactic management of stable angina pectoris. It improves both objective and subjective indices in patients, reducing the frequency and severity of anginal attacks and decreasing the need for glyceryl trinitrate . Its long duration of beta-blocking activity allows for once-daily dosing, which is more convenient for patients.

Myocardial Infarction and Cardiovascular Mortality

Early intervention with intravenous atenolol followed by oral maintenance therapy has been shown to reduce infarct recurrence and cardiovascular mortality in patients with known or suspected myocardial infarction . Long-term therapy with atenolol has also demonstrated encouraging evidence of reduced mortality from cardiovascular disease .

Supraventricular Arrhythmias

Atenolol is used to prevent the recurrence of supraventricular arrhythmias once control is achieved by intravenous administration. It has been particularly effective in reducing the incidence of postoperative supraventricular arrhythmias in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery .

Additional Uses and Considerations

Atenolol is well tolerated by most patients, with a lower incidence of central nervous system effects compared to non-selective beta-blockers like propranolol, due to its low lipid solubility and limited brain penetration . However, clinicians should be aware of rare adverse effects such as atenolol-associated cholestasis, which can cause cholestatic hepatitis.

Conclusion

Atenolol is a well-established treatment option in cardiovascular medicine, particularly for hypertension, stable angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, and supraventricular arrhythmias. Its efficacy, tolerability, and long-term benefits in reducing cardiovascular mortality make it a valuable medication in managing various cardiovascular disorders.