If your doctor has prescribed blood pressure medication called Tenormin, you should know the benefits and potential risks before you begin taking it.
Tenormin is the branded name of the generic drug atenolol. It is commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure and belongs to a class of drugs called beta blockers. Beta blockers work by slowing down the heart to decrease its workload, which controls blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.
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Another benefit to taking Tenormin is that lowering blood pressure can help prevent kidney disease.
People with hypertension may not feel sick, but
WebMD advises taking your blood pressure medication even though you might feel well. It can take up to two weeks to benefit from this drug, but continue taking it regularly. Taking Tenormin with apple or orange juice seems to lower its absorption, so avoid drinking these juices within several hours of taking your medication.
According to Drugs.com, Tenormin belongs to the FDA pregnancy category D. This means it is not safe for pregnant women as it will cause harm to an unborn baby. Women who take Tenormin should also practice effective birth control.
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You also may not be able to take Tenormin if you already have asthma, diabetes, depression, thyroid disease, circulation problems, or liver or kidney disease.
A common side effect with this blood pressure medication is dizziness, warns WebMD. Drinking alcohol can make the dizziness worse. Tenormin can also cause your hands and feet feel cold due to reduced blood circulation, and smoking can make this side effect worse.
Tenormin does have some potentially serious side effects that may warrant discontinuation of treatment,
says Everyday Health. Contact your physician immediately if you notice any of the following: swelling in the feet or ankles, fainting, nausea, fever, dark urine, depression, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, or slow or uneven heartbeats.
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