Description

Tenormin 25 – Strip of 14 Tablets

Tenormin 25 – Strip of 14 Tablets contains Atenolol, a beta-blocker used primarily to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), angina (chest pain), heart attack recovery, and certain arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).

Composition:

Each Tenormin 25 tablet contains:

• Atenolol (25 mg): Atenolol is a beta-1 selective adrenergic blocker (beta-blocker) that works by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart, which helps reduce heart rate and lower blood pressure. This also helps in preventing chest pain (angina) and controlling abnormal heart rhythms.

Uses:

Tenormin 25 is prescribed for the following conditions:

1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Atenolol lowers blood pressure by reducing the heart rate and the force of the heart’s contraction, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
2. Angina (Chest Pain): By reducing the heart’s workload and oxygen demand, Tenormin helps prevent angina attacks, which occur when the heart is not receiving enough oxygen due to blocked or narrowed arteries.
3. Post-Heart Attack Recovery: Atenolol is used after a heart attack to improve survival rates, reduce the risk of further complications, and lower the strain on the heart.
4. Arrhythmias (Irregular Heartbeats): It helps control supraventricular arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation, by slowing down the heart rate and restoring a more regular rhythm.

Dosage:

The typical dosage of Tenormin 25 is:

• Hypertension and Angina: One tablet (25 mg) daily, which may be adjusted based on response and individual patient needs.
• Post-Heart Attack Recovery: Usually 25 mg once daily, with possible adjustments based on the patient’s condition and recovery progress.
• Arrhythmias: Tenormin may be prescribed at a dose of 25 mg daily to manage irregular heart rhythms, with adjustments as needed.

Side Effects:

Common side effects of Tenormin 25 include:

• Fatigue or tiredness.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly (due to the blood pressure-lowering effect).
• Cold hands or feet (due to reduced blood circulation).
• Slow heart rate (bradycardia).
• Gastrointestinal issues like nausea or diarrhea.
• Sleep disturbances or vivid dreams.

Serious side effects (though rare) include:

• Severe bradycardia (very slow heart rate).
• Heart block (impaired electrical signaling in the heart).
• Severe dizziness or fainting.
• Shortness of breath, especially in patients with existing respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD.
• Depression, although rare.

Precautions:

• Asthma and Respiratory Issues: Atenolol can worsen symptoms in people with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as it can constrict the airways.
• Diabetes: Atenolol may mask symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), so diabetic patients should monitor their blood sugar levels carefully.
• Heart Block or Bradycardia: If you have a slow heart rate or heart block, Atenolol may need to be used with caution, or an alternative treatment may be prescribed.
• Kidney Function: Atenolol is excreted through the kidneys, so patients with kidney issues may require dosage adjustments.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Atenolol should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. It is not recommended for use while breastfeeding.

Drug Interactions:

• Other Blood Pressure Medications: Using Tenormin 25 in combination with other antihypertensive drugs (e.g., ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers) may cause excessive lowering of blood pressure.
• Antiarrhythmic Drugs: When combined with antiarrhythmic medications like digoxin, the risk of slow heart rate (bradycardia) may increase.
• NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can reduce the effectiveness of Atenolol in lowering blood pressure.
• Diabetic Medications: Atenolol can mask signs of hypoglycemia, such as increased heart rate, making it harder to recognize low blood sugar in diabetic patients.