Are you taking Atenolol? Are you aware of the dangers of combining Atenolol with certain foods, herbs, or alcohol? Drug-food-interactions are seldom discussed but can lead to undesirable side effects and potentially diminish the efficacy of the medication.
Atenolol Interactions with Food and Herbs
Grapefruit Juice: Grapefruit juice inhibits the activity of liver enzymes which inactivate several drugs. Intake of grapefruit juice with atenolol may increase the level of atenolol in the blood.
Sodium rich foods: Foods rich in sodium content may reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect of atenolol. Avoid extra salt in the diet and avoid sodium rich food.
Atenolol Interactions with Alcohol
The combination of atenolol with alcohol may make you feel more sleepy or drowsy and increase the risk of lightheadedness when you stand or sit from lying down posture. This is also called orthostatic hypotension (fall in blood pressure while suddenly standing or sitting up from lying position).
When and How to Take Atenolol
Atenolol is available in the form of a tablet. It is usually taken once a day. Take the medicine at around the same time every day for better control of blood pressure. Don't exceed or skip the dose. Even if you miss, take the medicine as soon as you remember. Do not double the dose at a time to compensate the missed dose.
Drug Name : Atenolol
Atenolol blocks beta-1 receptors, which are present on the heart. This prevents the action of nerve chemicals adrenaline and noradrenaline on the heart. As a result, heart beats at a slower rate and with lesser force, and thus pumps out lesser blood into blood vessels. This action of atenolol reduces blood pressure in the hypertensive patients. Since the heart treated with atenolol beat slowly and with less force, it uses lesser energy thus relieving pain in angina and also reduces the risk of heart attack.We recommend consulting your doctor to verify the information presented on this page or if you need any further clarifications.
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