About Atenolol
Atenolol is a prescription medication used to treat certain heart conditions such as arrhythmias. This beta-blocker can also be used to lower blood pressure and treat enlarged hearts in cats. Atenolol functions by slowing and regulating your pet’s heart rate to make the heart work more efficiently. It is appropriate for use in dogs, cats, and ferrets.
Atenolol is a beta-blocker that lowers heart rate, blood pressure, and over-activity of the heart, thus allowing for a regular heartbeat and better heart function.
Side Effects and WarningsSide effects may include lethargy, difficulty exercising, low blood pressure which would cause fainting, weakness, or dizziness, loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea, behavior change, and low blood sugar.
Atenolol may constrict the bronchi, resulting in coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.
An improper dose of Atenolol can cause the heart rate to be too slow.
If your pet experiences an allergic reaction (symptoms may include swelling, hives, difficulty breathing, itching, etc.) or any of the above symptoms, contact your veterinarian.
Atenolol should not be used in pets with heart block, bradycardia (slow heart rate), and some types of heart failure. Use with caution in diabetic pets or those with kidney disease.
Use with caution in animals with some types of lung disease such as asthma.
Atenolol should not be used in pets allergic to it, or pets who have had reactions to other beta-blockers.
Possible interactions may occur with the following drugs: albuterol (Ventolin), anesthetic agents, cimetidine, epinephrine, furosemide, hydralazine, insulin, metaproterenol, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (ex. aspirin, carprofen), other heart medications (digoxin, diltiazem, verapamil), phenothiazines (tranquilizers), phenylpropanolamine, prazosin, and terbutaline.
Tell your veterinarian about any other medications, vitamins, or supplements that your pet is taking.
Atenolol InteractionsPossible interactions may occur with the following drugs: albuterol (Ventolin), anesthetic agents, cimetidine, epinephrine, furosemide, hydralazine, insulin, metaproterenol, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (ex. aspirin, carprofen), other heart medications (digoxin, diltiazem, verapamil), phenothiazines (tranquilizers), phenylpropanolamine, prazosin, and terbutaline.
Tell your veterinarian about any other medications, vitamins, or supplements that your pet is taking.
Where Can I Find More Information?Ask your veterinarian or consult with one of our pet care specialists at 1-800-844-1427.
This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis or treatment by, your veterinarian. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard or delay seeking professional advice due to what you may have read on our website. Our medications are FDA approved and/or EPA regulated when and as required by law.