Atenolol

Excerpt

Atenolol is a second-generation beta-1–selective adrenergic antagonist that helps lower the heart rate and blood pressure of an individual while also decreasing myocardial contractility. Atenolol is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating hypertension, angina pectoris, and acute myocardial infarction. Off-label uses of atenolol include the treatment of arrhythmias, migraine prophylaxis, paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia, alcohol withdrawal, thyrotoxicosis, and prophylaxis against secondary myocardial infarction. Atenolol serves as an alternative to propranolol in the management of infantile hemangiomas. This activity provides a comprehensive overview of atenolol, covering its indications, mechanism of action, safe administration, adverse effects, contraindications, monitoring, and toxicity. This activity also underscores the collaborative role of the interprofessional healthcare team in treating the medical conditions of patients using atenolol.