The Long-Term Effects of Atenolol
Atenolol is a prescription medication that is a beta-blocker, which works to slow the heart and lower blood pressure. It is prescribed for hypertension and, since it increases the oxygen that can reach the heart, Atenolol is also used to alleviate chest pain or lessen damage due to heart attacks. A wide variety of side effects have been noted and not all are common. However, if you are taking Atenolol and note any changes in your physical or mental well-being, contact your physician.
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General Physical Symptoms
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When first taking Atenolol, you may feel drowsy or weak. Do not operate a car or machinery or take any action that requires alertness until you know that the medication will not have this effect on you. Fevers, sweating or chills or feeling cold in the extremities have been reported by some people. Swelling, weight gain, nausea or joint pains have also been reported.
Blood Sugar
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Blood and urine tests may show a change in blood sugar in people taking Atenolol. Increased thirst may be one sign of a low-blood sugar response.
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Breathing or Heart Problems
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Difficulty in breathing, an increased heart rate or irregularities in either the heart rate or breathing problems, such as wheezing, may result. The patient may feel faint, dizzy or short of breath. See your physician immediately if these conditions occur. If chest pain or serious breathing difficulties occur, call 911.
Vision Problems
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Although not common, some people have reported that their vision has become blurry or diminished. Problems occur at night in vision, including night blindness. Lights may appear to be surrounded by halos or they may seem to be overly bright. Difficulties in distinguishing colors and double vision have also been reported.
Bleeding or Unusual Symptoms
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Some rare conditions include blood bleeding into the gums or blood in the stool or urine. Bruising may occur more easily. Urination may become less frequent or have lesser volume. Small dots of red or hives may appear on the skin. Fingernails or toenails that turn bluish are a serious sign of heart difficulties.
Mental Difficulties
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Some patients have reported a general confusion or difficulty in the mental process. Emotional upsets may include a sense of anxiety or depression.
Warning
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Do not use Atenolol if you are pregnant or could become pregnant because serious birth defects may occur. If you have a severe response to Atenolol, especially one that involves breathing, chest pain or a feeling of tightness in the chest, swelling, depression or a serious allergic response, such as hives, call your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room. Ensure that all physicians know you are taking Atenolol.
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