Medications, whether they are over the counter (OTC) or prescription, come with potential side effects or allergic reactions. Gastrointestinal side effects are most common with medications that are taken orally. Fortunately, not everyone experiences side effects with medication. The cardiac medicine Atenolol is not exempt from having potential side effects. As with most medications, Atenolol has potential gastrointestinal side effects. The most common of these gastrointestinal side effects is diarrhea. Learn about the drug Atenolol and how the side effect of diarrhea can produce additional health risks if left unchecked.
Atenolol
Atenolol is a prescription medicine within the category of beta-blockers. Beta-blockers work to block specific, natural, chemical reactions within the body that may be overproducing certain chemicals, which are causing damage to other body parts and/or bodily functions. Atenolol works to block the overproduction of epinephrine, more commonly known as adrenaline.
Benefits
Blocking the excess production of epinephrine within the body is why cardiologists prescribe Atenolol. The epinephrine-blocking effect of this medication helps to slow accelerated heart rates, lower blood pressure and lower the overall strain to the heart. Most widely used to increase the survival rate of those who have had heart attacks, Atenolol works to prevent the onset of a stroke by lowering blood pressure.
Precaution
Atenolol is always meant to be taken as prescribed. The medication has little effect if it is only taken when chest pains or severe headaches occur. Regular use helps to alleviate these onsets. Suddenly ceasing to take Atenolol without first consulting your cardiologist, even with the appearance of such side effects as diarrhea, may worsen your existing condition.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is having loose or liquid bowel movements in excess of three times a day. This condition can affect a person of any age for a variety of reasons. Diarrhea typically does not strike on its own; it is generally a symptom or side effect of another cause, such as the rotovirus or certain types of hepatitis, or as the side effect of medication.
Effects
When diarrhea occurs, your body expels more fluid than it should. This overexcretion of bodily fluid leads to dehydration. It is crucial to replace the fluid lost in the body as a result of diarrhea. Clear liquids, preferably water, are best. Once dehydration sets in, the body's fluids need to be replenished immediately, most often intravenously. If the body loses too much fluid, it begins to stop functioning.
Warning
Diarrhea is a common side effect of the drug Atenolol. If diarrhea progresses, the effectiveness of Atenolol will be lessened as dehydration sets in. In some instances, additional heart complications may arise, which Atenolol cannot prevent. Report your diarrhea symptoms to your cardiologist and primary care physician to prevent any further complications to your health and treatment.
