Information about Tenoretic (Atenolol / Chlorthalidone)
Tenoretic is a prescription medication that combines two active ingredients, atenolol (a beta-blocker) and chlorthalidone (a diuretic), used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and other cardiovascular conditions. Atenolol works by reducing the heart rate and the force of the heart's contractions, while chlorthalidone helps reduce fluid buildup in the body by increasing urine output. Together, these components help lower blood pressure and reduce the workload on the heart, improving overall cardiovascular health.
Product Highlights
- Tenoretic is commonly prescribed to help control high blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
- It is used to treat angina, a condition where the heart does not get enough oxygen, causing chest pain. By reducing the heart’s workload, it helps prevent angina attacks.
- Tenoretic may be used off-label to improve symptoms of heart failure, a condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively.
- Atenolol, one of the active ingredients, may be used to prevent future heart attacks in people who have had one before.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- The combination of atenolol and chlorthalidone effectively lowers blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as stroke and heart attack.
- By reducing the workload on the heart, Tenoretic helps prevent chest pain associated with angina.
- Chlorthalidone helps remove excess fluid from the body, which is especially beneficial for people with fluid retention or heart-related conditions.
- Tenoretic is taken once daily, which simplifies medication regimens for long-term management of hypertension and heart conditions.
Direction of Use
- The typical dosage of Tenoretic is one tablet taken once daily, with or without food. The dose may vary depending on individual health conditions and the doctor's recommendation.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible, unless it's nearly time for your next dose. Do not take an extra dose to make up for the missed one.
- It is important to take Tenoretic consistently as prescribed, even if you feel well, to maintain blood pressure control and prevent cardiovascular events.
Safety Concerns
- Since Tenoretic lowers blood pressure, it can cause hypotension (abnormally low blood pressure) in some individuals, leading to dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness.
- Atenolol can cause a slow heart rate (bradycardia), which can lead to symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or fainting.
- The diuretic effect of chlorthalidone can lead to electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium (hypokalemia), low sodium (hyponatremia), or high calcium (hypercalcemia). Regular monitoring of blood levels is necessary.
- Chlorthalidone can affect kidney function, so kidney function should be monitored regularly, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney issues.
- Use Tenoretic cautiously in patients with liver disease, as it may worsen liver function.
- Atenolol can mask the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), so people with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels closely.
- Tenoretic is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to potential harm to the fetus. It is also not recommended for breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk.
- Chlorthalidone can increase uric acid levels, potentially triggering gout in susceptible individuals.
- Suddenly stopping Tenoretic can lead to a rebound effect, causing an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. It should be gradually discontinued under a doctor's guidance.
Avoid Tenoretic (Atenolol / Chlorthalidone) If
- If you are allergic to either of the ingredients or other beta-blockers or diuretics, you should avoid Tenoretic.
- Tenoretic should not be used in people with severe heart block or a slow heart rate (bradycardia) without a functioning pacemaker.
- Avoid Tenoretic if you have severe kidney or liver disease, as both ingredients can worsen kidney or liver function.
- Atenolol can constrict the airways and should be avoided in patients with asthma or severe respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Avoid Tenoretic during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters, unless absolutely necessary and prescribed by a doctor.
- Tenoretic is not recommended for use while breastfeeding because it can pass into breast milk.
- If you have low blood pressure (hypotension) or a slow heart rate (bradycardia), you should avoid Tenoretic, as it may exacerbate these conditions.
- If you have gout, you should use Tenoretic cautiously as chlorthalidone may increase uric acid levels and trigger a gout attack.
