Atenolol and Alcohol Interaction
Atenolol and Alcohol
Atenolol brand name Tenormin is commonly used to treat the chest pain of Angina and to treat high blood pressure. It may also be used for other purposes. It belongs to a group of drugs called beta blockers which work by affecting the flow of blood through arteries and veins.
It is suggested that you not consume alcohol which will result in increased drowsiness and dizziness.
At this time the medical community defines moderate consumption of alcohol as no more than two drinks per day and no more than 14 drinks per week. Anything more than that is considered an unhealthy dependency on alcohol that may have adverse social, family and health consequences.
If a person drinks only once or twice a week but drinks on the same days each week and more than two drinks this is considered as an alcohol dependency.
If a person binge drinks at any time during the week this is also considered as alcoholism.
Some consider alcoholism as a disease while others consider it an addiction which is the result of personal choice and character fault. This school of thought blames the alcoholism on life style choices.
Personally I consider alcoholism a genetic tendency as I have seen families of alcoholics even when they live far apart. These unfortunate people are probably dependent on alcohol from the first drink.
When alcohol interacts with prescription over the counter drugs it usually results in negative health effects most especially liver damage as the main organ affected.
It is suggested that before taking this or any other drug you have a frank and honest discussion with your physician as to your drinking habits. This may be difficult as many alcoholics are in a state of denial as to their drinking habits.
I have also noticed that many alcoholics are not subject to the morning after illness that most of us suffer through when we drink too much. Severe alcoholics usually find if they feel “shakey” in the morning, a drink will make them feel more normal.
Do not stop taking Atenolol without discussion and direction from your physician as your condition may worsen.
Before starting the drug ensure your physician is aware of any other conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, diabetes, low blood pressure, a heart problem such as heart block, sick sinus syndrome, slow heart rate, congestive heart failure, depression, liver or kidney disease, thyroid disorder, myasthenia gravis, pheochtomocytoma or problems with circulation (Raynaud’s syndrome).
Side Effects
Less serious side effects of Atenolol and alcohol are decreased sex drive, impotence, difficulty having an orgasm, sleep problems, tired feeling, anxiety or nervousness. If these occur call your physician for advice.
Serious side effects of Atenolol and alcohol are slow or uneven heartbeats, light headed, fainting, short of breath, swelling of ankles and feet, nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay colored stools, jaundice, depression or cold hands and feet. If these occur get emergency medical aid.
This site serves as an information source only and does not dispense medical advice or any other kind of advice. If you are seeking medical advice you are advised to consult your own physician.
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