Atenolol

[Wayne]

I recently read a medication topic about "Atenolol". My primary doctor
at the Veterans Administration has decided to take me off "Nadolol" at 40mg and put me on "Atenolol" at 50mg without explaination. Does anyone know if these two medications are one in the same? I know the dossage is not very high. When I first took Nadolol my blood pressure dropped to 40 B.P.I. Naturally I'm afraid to change the medications and dossage without more knowledge. Any comments or experience would be appreciated.

Wayne

[Lisa Salberg]

Wayne,
There is little difference between the two. It is likely that the VA changed the drugs in there formulary and that is the "new" beta blocker they are using. Atenolol is actually used more often then Nadolol in those we have spoken to here at the HCMA.

Be well,
Lisa

[Linda]

Wayne, It's good to be cautious in changing meds. We have come home with new RX's, and I've told doctors I won't change a med and then leave for several hours in a plane. We'll change after we've come home, told our local doctor of the change, and know that we can be home that day and supervised. I'm speaking of changing meds in a child/teenager/young adult. Now, I tell him to make sure he will not have to drive and someone is available to help out if it is a med that may drop BP or pulse. Especially if you've had problems before, talk to your doctor, let him know of the change and see if he has any special instructions. Your pharmacist is a good person to talk to for reassurance of comparable doses. I think Atenolol is probably a lower cost med, but hospitals will try to stick to their formulary supplies. Stocking fewer drugs allows purchase in larger quantities and saves $$. The ultimate purpose of the med is the same, but if it causes problems for you, be sure to let them know. Linda

[Millie Acosta]

Wayne,

My son is 11 was on Naldolol 25 mg. and was switched to Atenolol because Naldolol was causing him trouble in school. It was affecting his short term memory, causing him confusion, etc. He is now on Atenolol 25 mg. as well and seems to be doing better with his cognitive skills. Both drugs, I've been told by his cardiologist, pharmacist, and personal research do the same job. Except the Atenolol seems to have fewer of the cognitive skills side effects, however, they both make him tire. No changes in his blood pressure as well.

[baw578]

My brother(27) and I(21) are both on Atenolol. He take 50mg in the morning and 25mg at night. I take 50 mg both in the morning and at night. I found it better than Verapimil 125mg. (please excuse my spelling)

[mtlieb]

Hi Wayne,

I've been on 100mg of Atenolol for some time now and it has been a good drug for me. Like all beta-blockers it makes me quite tired at times, but I have not had any other major side-effects from it.

Jim