Atenolol is a beta-blocker drug used to treat some heart conditions, reduce the symptoms of angina pectoris (chest pain), lower blood pressure in
people with hypertension, and treat people
after heart attacks.
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
Avoid:Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements when taking this
medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous results.
High-potassium foods*
Pleurisy root*
Potassium supplements*
Tobacco
Depletion or interference
None known
Side effect reduction/prevention
None known
Supportive interaction
None known
Reduced drug
absorption/bioavailability
None known
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Potassium
Some beta-adrenergic blockers (called “nonselective” beta blockers) decrease the
uptake of potassium from the blood into the cells,1 leading to excess potassium in
the blood, a potentially dangerous condition known as hyperkalemia.2 People taking
beta-blockers should therefore avoid taking potassium supplements, or eating large quantities
of fruit (e.g., bananas), unless directed to do so by their
doctor.
Interactions with Herbs
Pleurisy
root
As pleurisy root and other plants in the Aesclepius species contain cardiac
glycosides, it is best to avoid use of pleurisy root with heart medications such as
atenolol.3
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Food
Atenolol may be taken with or without food.4
Alcohol
Atenolol may cause drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, or blurred vision.5
Alcohol may intensify these effects and increase the risk of accidental injury. To prevent
problems, people taking atenolol should avoid alcohol.
Tobacco
In a double-blind study of ten cigarette smokers with angina treated with atenolol for one
week, angina episodes were significantly reduced during the nonsmoking phase compared to the
smoking phase.6 People with angina taking atenolol who do not smoke should avoid
starting. Those who smoke should consult with their prescribing doctor about quitting.
References (To view, roll mouse over the "References" heading; to hide, click on the heading)
1. Rosa RM, Silva P, Young JB, et al. Adrenergic modulation of extrarenal
potassium disposal. N Engl J Med 1980;302:431–4.
2. Lundborg P. The effect of adrenergic blockade on potassium
concentrations in different conditions. Acta Med Scand Suppl 1983;672:121–6
[review].
3. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide
for Health-Care Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 213–4.
4. Threlkeld DS, ed. Diuretics and Cardiovasculars, Beta-Adrenergic
Blocking Agents. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and
Comparisons, Feb 1993, 158L.
5. Threlkeld DS, ed. Diuretics and Cardiovasculars, Beta-Adrenergic
Blocking Agents. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and
Comparisons, Feb 1993, 158L.
6. Deanfield J, Wright C, Krikler S, et al. Cigarette smoking and the
treatment of angina with propranolol, atenolol, and nifedipine. N Engl J Med
1984;310:951–4.
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes
only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical
experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not
necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or
before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2009.
