Atenolol Therapy for Hypertension and Angina

Introduction to Atenolol Therapy

The American College of Cardiology recommends that atenolol should not be used as first-line therapy for hypertension due to being less effective than placebo in reducing cardiovascular events 1
The American College of Cardiology suggests that for stable ischemic heart disease with angina, other beta blockers are preferred over atenolol 1

For patients with hypertension or angina, atenolol can be initiated at 50 mg once daily, with potential increase to 100 mg once daily if needed, but should not be used as first-line therapy due to being less effective than placebo in reducing cardiovascular events 1

Atenolol should not be used as first-line therapy for hypertension as it is less effective than placebo in reducing cardiovascular events, according to the American College of Cardiology 1
Preferred beta blockers for hypertension include carvedilol, metoprolol succinate, and bisoprolol, as recommended by Praxis Medical Insights 2
Atenolol is contraindicated in patients with asthma, obstructive airway disease, decompensated heart failure, and pre-excited atrial fibrillation or flutter, as stated in Circulation 3

Atenolol may be used with dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers for patients with persistent hypertension and angina, as recommended by the American College of Cardiology 1
For patients with stable ischemic heart disease, ACE inhibitors or ARBs may be added if blood pressure goal is not met, according to the American College of Cardiology 1
Monitor heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG when initiating therapy, as recommended by the American College of Cardiology 4
Target blood pressure for patients with stable ischemic heart disease should be less than 130/80 mm Hg, according to the American College of Cardiology 1
Assess for side effects including bradycardia, hypotension, and worsening heart failure, as stated in Circulation 3