atenolol
Atenolol is used to treat high blood pressure, angina (chest pain) and improve survival after a heart attack. Atenolol is in a class of medications called beta blockers. It works by relaxing blood vessels and slowing heart rate to improve blood flow and decrease blood pressure.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking atenolol affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
According to the MotherToBaby fact sheet, it is not known whether atenolol can make it harder to get pregnant. If you have questions about atenolol and fertility, it is best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Does taking atenolol increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons. The MotherToBaby fact sheet notes that studies have not been done to see if atenolol increases the chance of miscarriage. This is something to discuss with your healthcare provider.
Does taking atenolol increase the risk of birth defects?
Every pregnancy starts with a background 3–5% chance of a birth defect. According to the fact sheet, studies have not specifically been done on atenolol and birth defects, but studies on beta-blockers in general during pregnancy have not reported an increased chance of birth defects. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh this information for your individual situation.
Can taking atenolol during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
The fact sheet notes that atenolol has been linked with reduced fetal growth (smaller size and/or low birth weight, defined as less than 2500 grams). It is not clear whether this is due to the medication itself, the condition being treated, or other factors, though one study suggested atenolol may directly affect blood flow through the placenta. These considerations should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Can taking atenolol during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
According to the MotherToBaby fact sheet, studies have not been done to see if atenolol can cause behavior or learning issues in the child, and there are no tests during pregnancy that can predict future behavior or learning outcomes. Any concerns can be reviewed with your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking atenolol?
The fact sheet states that atenolol passes into breastmilk, and there have been reports of babies experiencing slow heart rate, low blood pressure, bluish skin color (cyanosis), and low body temperature after exposure through breast milk. The product label recommends that breastfeeding women not use this medication, but in some situations the benefit may outweigh the possible risks. This is a decision to make together with your healthcare provider, and any symptoms in the baby should be reported to the child's healthcare provider promptly.
Source: MotherToBaby Fact Sheet
atenolol