What Is the Interaction between Atenolol and Chlorthalidone?

Atenolol and chlorthalidone are medications that address aspects of high blood pressure. They are available in a combined form medication, and when the two drugs are used together, they may provide greater symptom control. Each medicine works differently on the circulatory system to produce a cumulatively greater effect. The two drugs don’t interact negatively, though some patients don’t tolerate the combined medication well or shouldn’t use it due to other health conditions.

Chlorthalidone is a member of the group of medications known as thiazide diuretics. These medicines increase sodium and reduce potassium, resulting in a reduction of fluid in the body. This, in turn, can decrease blood pressure.

Atenolol is part of the beta blocker class. Beta blockers affect production of and body response to the neurotransmitter, epinephrine. When they are used, the heart beats more slowly and with less force. This tends to lower blood pressure.

Generally, atenolol and chlorthalidone are not prescribed together if either a diuretic or beta blocker is effective alone. When hypertension resists treatment with a single drug, it can make sense to use two different kinds of medicines to improve the effects of both. In this sense, atenolol and chlorthalidone interact to create a stronger high blood pressure treatment, and they are so frequently used that pharmaceutical companies manufacture a combination pill.

Though atenolol and chlorthalidone tend to have a beneficial effect on the right patient population, individuals using this combination drug should watch for certain side effects. Diuretics can cause dehydration, and it can become so severe that it results in disorientation and vomiting. Getting the right amount of liquids is important to prevent this symptom.

Other side effects noted with the two drugs are dizziness and headache. People with depression may find their symptoms worsen when taking this medication. Alternately, the drug might cause impotence, a skin rash or tiredness. Patients should consult their physicians if these symptoms get worse or are bothersome.

Not all individuals are good candidates for atenolol and chlorthalidone, and the dosage may require adjustment if people are undergoing surgery. Pregnant women shouldn’t use these two medications because they may cause birth defects. People with heart rhythm problems or with certain forms of congestive heart failure are also advised not to take these medicines.

Where appropriate, the combination of a beta blocker and a thiazide diuretic may be very effective. Generally, such drugs work best when combined with lifestyle changes that help reduce blood pressure, too. For example, most people will need to work on controlling diet and getting more exercise to experience the most beneficial effects of the two medications.