A beta blocker · Written by the Lyng Pharmacy team, based on NHS and BNF guidance · Updated August 2026
Also sold asTenormin
Type of medicineBeta blocker
Available asTablets, oral solution
How you get itPrescription only
Atenolol slows the heart and reduces the work it does. It is used for angina, heart rhythm problems, after a heart attack, and sometimes for blood pressure — though newer options are usually preferred for hypertension alone.
How to take it
Once daily, usually in the morning, with or without food, at the same time each day.
Never stop atenolol suddenly. Abrupt withdrawal can cause a rapid rise in blood pressure, worsening angina, or in some cases a heart attack. Reduce gradually with your GP.
If you miss a dose, take it when you remember on the same day; skip it if the next is nearly due.
Who should take care
Asthma — beta blockers can cause serious bronchospasm; tell your prescriber
COPD, or any wheezing condition
A very slow heart rate, or certain heart block conditions
Diabetes — beta blockers can mask hypo warning signs, particularly a racing heart
Peripheral arterial disease, where cold hands and feet may worsen
Side effects
Tiredness, cold hands and feet, dizziness, slow pulse, and vivid dreams are the common ones. Tiredness often improves over the first weeks.
Contact your doctor for wheezing or breathlessness, a very slow pulse, fainting, or swollen ankles.
Alcohol adds to dizziness. Get up slowly from sitting or lying.
Atenolol is generally avoided in pregnancy; speak to your GP if you are pregnant or planning to be rather than stopping on your own.
Always read the label. This page is general information, not advice for your situation. Doses, warnings and interactions differ between products and between people. Check the leaflet inside your medicine, and ask our pharmacist if anything is unclear — that conversation is free and takes two minutes.
Questions about Atenolol?
1 Lyng Lane, West Bromwich B70 7RW · Mon–Fri 8:30am–6pm, Sat 9am–1pm · 0121 500 5756
We use essential cookies to make the site work — things like your basket, sign-in and secure checkout. With your permission we’d also like to use analytics cookies to understand how the site is used and improve it. See our cookie policy.
