Generic medicine

Atenolol + Chlorthalidone: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Atenolol + Chlorthalidone is a fixed-dose combination of a beta-1 selective adrenergic blocking agent (atenolol) and a thiazide-like diuretic (chlorthalidone) and more.

Forms:Tablet

About Atenolol + Chlorthalidone

Indications of Atenolol + Chlorthalidone

Atenolol + Chlorthalidone is a fixed-dose combination of a beta-1 selective adrenergic blocking agent (atenolol) and a thiazide-like diuretic (chlorthalidone), indicated for the following:

Established/FDA-approved use

  • Hypertension: Atenolol + Chlorthalidone is indicated for the treatment of hypertension in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled on either component alone, or as initial therapy in patients likely to need multiple drugs to achieve their blood pressure goal. It lowers blood pressure and thereby reduces the risk of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events such as stroke and myocardial infarction.

Not first-line for these uses

Atenolol + Chlorthalidone is not intended as initial therapy for hypertension in patients whose blood pressure can be controlled on a single agent; it is used specifically as combination therapy once monotherapy with either component has proven insufficient, or when a patient is already stable on the equivalent individual doses of atenolol and chlorthalidone.

Dosage & Administration of Atenolol + Chlorthalidone

Dosage of Atenolol + Chlorthalidone must be individualized according to the patient's blood pressure response and tolerability.

IndicationPopulationRecommended Dose
HypertensionAdultsInitiate with one tablet of atenolol 50 mg/chlorthalidone 25 mg once daily. If the desired blood pressure reduction is not achieved, the dose may be increased to one tablet of atenolol 100 mg/chlorthalidone 25 mg once daily. Doses of chlorthalidone above 25 mg do not generally provide additional antihypertensive benefit and increase the risk of electrolyte disturbance.
HypertensionSevere renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 35 mL/min/1.73m²)Thiazide-type diuretics, including chlorthalidone, may be ineffective and are generally not recommended; if Atenolol + Chlorthalidone is used, dosing intervals for the atenolol component should be extended and the patient monitored closely.
HypertensionPediatric patientsSafety and effectiveness have not been established (see Use in Special Populations).

Atenolol + Chlorthalidone should not be stopped abruptly, particularly in patients with underlying coronary artery disease; the dose should be tapered gradually over one to two weeks under medical supervision.

Side Effects of Atenolol + Chlorthalidone

Side effects of Atenolol + Chlorthalidone arise from both the beta-blocker and diuretic components.

CommonLess common / Serious
Fatigue, dizziness, cold extremities, bradycardiaPostural (orthostatic) hypotension
Nausea, diarrheaHypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypomagnesemia, hyperuricemia
Muscle cramps or weaknessHyperglycemia, worsening of diabetic control
RashBronchospasm (especially in patients with reactive airway disease)
Mild mood changesDepression, hallucinations (rare)
Cold hands/feet, reduced peripheral circulationImpotence/erectile dysfunction, alopecia (rare, postmarketing)

Patients should seek prompt medical advice for symptoms such as very slow heartbeat, fainting, significant swelling, difficulty breathing, or signs of severe electrolyte disturbance (severe muscle weakness, confusion, irregular heartbeat).

Contraindications of Atenolol + Chlorthalidone

Atenolol + Chlorthalidone is contraindicated in patients with:

  • Known hypersensitivity to atenolol, chlorthalidone, or other sulfonamide-derived drugs
  • Sinus bradycardia
  • Second- or third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block (without a functioning pacemaker)
  • Sick sinus syndrome (without a functioning pacemaker)
  • Cardiogenic shock
  • Overt (decompensated) cardiac failure
  • Anuria

Frequently Asked Questions about Atenolol + Chlorthalidone

What is Atenolol + Chlorthalidone used for?

Atenolol + Chlorthalidone is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It combines a beta-blocker (atenolol) with a diuretic (chlorthalidone) to lower blood pressure more effectively than either drug alone, reducing the risk of stroke and heart attack.

How should I take Atenolol + Chlorthalidone?

Atenolol + Chlorthalidone is usually taken once daily, at the same time each day, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not stop taking it suddenly without talking to your doctor, as this can cause a dangerous rebound increase in heart problems.

Who should not take Atenolol + Chlorthalidone?

Atenolol + Chlorthalidone should not be used by people with a very slow heart rate, certain heart block conditions without a pacemaker, cardiogenic shock, decompensated heart failure, inability to produce urine (anuria), or known allergy to atenolol, chlorthalidone, or sulfonamide-related medicines.

Can Atenolol + Chlorthalidone be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Atenolol + Chlorthalidone should be used in pregnancy only if clearly necessary, as it may affect the growth and heart rate of the baby, especially later in pregnancy; a physician's guidance is essential. Both components pass into breast milk, so breastfeeding mothers should use Atenolol + Chlorthalidone only under medical supervision, with the baby monitored for any effects.

What are the common side effects of Atenolol + Chlorthalidone?

Common side effects include tiredness, dizziness, cold hands and feet, slow heart rate, and mild stomach upset. Because Atenolol + Chlorthalidone contains a diuretic, it can also cause changes in blood electrolyte levels (such as low potassium or sodium), so periodic blood tests may be recommended.

Does Atenolol + Chlorthalidone interact with other medicines?

Yes. Atenolol + Chlorthalidone can interact with other heart-rate-lowering medicines (like verapamil or diltiazem), lithium, NSAIDs (like ibuprofen), clonidine, and diabetes medicines. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you are taking before starting Atenolol + Chlorthalidone.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

DoctorBlogArticles