A Chemical on the Prop 65 List

Atenolol is a beta1-blocking agent that is used to treat high blood pressure and to correct irregular heartbeat. Atenolol decreases the hearts need for blood and oxygen and therefore reduces the amount of work the heart must do. It also helps the heart beat more regularly.

Dogs and Cats

Atenolol is used to treat certain heart diseases, such as arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) and may be used to lower blood pressure.

atenolol

Notify your veterinarian if your pet is very tired, has trouble exercising, develops shortness of breath or cough or if your pet's behavior changes.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Atenolol should be given orally as directed by your veterinarian. Do not stop giving the medication unless advised by your veterinarian. 

This medication does not have an FDA approved indication for use in animals, but it is a common and acceptable practice for veterinarians to prescribe this human medication for use in animals. 

Use caution in animals with kidney disease, certain types of lung disease, and diabetes.

Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet. Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely. The following drugs can potentially interact with atenolol: metaproterenol, terbutaline, epinephrine, phenylpropanolamine, anesthetic agents, phenothiazines, furosemide, hydralazine, insulin, calcium channel blockers (verapamil, diltiazem), and prazosin. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

Allergic reactions to medications may occur. Be sure to inform VetSource and your veterinarian if your pet has any known drug sensitivities or allergies. If your pet displays symptoms of an allergic reaction, call your veterinarian immediately or go to a veterinary emergency clinic. Symptoms may include but are not limited to: swollen lips, tongue, face, airways; difficulty breathing; agitation; profuse salivation; vomiting; widespread hives and itching.