Health information to help you understand symptoms. It isn't a diagnosis.
Check symptoms

Atenolol

Brand names: Tenormin

Atenolol is a beta blocker that lowers blood pressure and heart rate and eases angina.

Brand namesTenormin
Type of medicineBeta blocker
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It slows the heart and reduces its workload.

What it's used for

  • High blood pressure
  • Chest pain (angina)
  • After a heart attack
  • Off-label: fast heart rhythms and performance anxiety

How to take it

  • Take it once or twice a day, with or without food.
  • Don't stop suddenly. Stopping fast can cause chest pain or a heart attack.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Tiredness
  • Dizziness
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Slow heartbeat
Call 911Chest pain, fainting, or a very slow heartbeat
Call 911Wheezing or trouble breathing
Call your provider todaySwelling in the legs, fast weight gain, or worse shortness of breath

Warnings

  • It can hide signs of low blood sugar.
  • Use with care with asthma or COPD.
  • Doses are lower with kidney disease.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Other heart-rate medicines can slow the heart too much.
  • Clonidine: stopping either needs a careful plan.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Usually not preferred in pregnancy. Talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.