Atenolol

Veterinary Compounding Medication – Customized for Dogs and Cats

Quick Reference

Commonly Prescribed For: Supraventricular tachyarrhythmias, premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), and systemic hypertension

Species: Dogs and Cats

Therapeutic Class: Beta-blocker

Basic Information

Atenolol is a beta-adrenergic blocker widely used to manage various cardiovascular disorders in veterinary medicine. By blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart, it reduces the heart’s workload and oxygen demand. This results in a slower heart rate, decreased contractility, and lowered blood pressure — making it a key therapy for hypertension and arrhythmias.

Uses in Dogs and Cats

Dogs: Atenolol is frequently prescribed to manage heart rhythm disturbances such as supraventricular tachyarrhythmias and premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). It also assists in reducing blood pressure and controlling heart disease symptoms associated with excessive heart rate or contractility.

Cats: Commonly used in feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and conditions causing increased heart muscle mass or chamber constriction. It helps regulate heart rate, reduce arrhythmia risk, and control hypertension, particularly in cats with hyperthyroidism-induced high blood pressure.

Side Effects

Common: Bradycardia (slow heart rate), hypotension (low blood pressure), weakness, and lethargy.

Less Common: Gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite. In rare instances, atenolol may exacerbate heart failure if not appropriately managed.

Precautions

Atenolol dosing should be carefully tailored to the animal’s condition and response. It must be used with caution in pets with pre-existing heart failure or pulmonary disease, and should never be discontinued abruptly to avoid rebound hypertension or worsening cardiac function. Monitoring heart rate and blood pressure during therapy is essential. Pets with asthma or bronchospasm should be treated cautiously, as beta-blockers can potentially worsen respiratory conditions.

Drug Interactions

Atenolol may interact with other cardiac drugs such as digitalis, calcium channel blockers, and additional beta-blockers — amplifying their effects on heart rate and blood pressure. Use with caution alongside diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or medications affecting electrolyte balance to prevent excessive hypotension or bradycardia.

Overdose

Overdose symptoms include severe bradycardia, hypotension, heart failure, and possible cardiac arrest. Immediate veterinary attention is critical. Treatment involves supportive care such as intravenous fluids, atropine administration for bradycardia, and vasopressors to maintain stable blood pressure.

Custom Veterinary Compounding for Atenolol

For customized veterinary compounding of Atenolol and other cardiac medications, trust Rock Ridge Pharmacy. Our pharmacists prepare precise formulations tailored to your pet’s cardiovascular needs with quality and care.