Drug Uses
Tenormin is a beta-blocker that is used to increase the chances of survival post a heart attack. Some doctors may also prescribe it for other conditions.
How it is taken
The best way to use Tenormin is as recommended by your doctor.
Missed Dosage
If you miss a dose of Tenormin then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.
Overdose
Some of the typical symptoms of a Tenormin overdose include breathing problems, chest pain, fainting, pounding in the chest, seizures, severe dizziness, severe weakness, very slow heartbeat, wheezing. You may need to seek medical attention immediately.
Warnings/Precautions
Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, if you have a history of lung or breathing problems (eg, asthma, chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], emphysema), heart problems (eg, heart failure, conduction problems, left ventricle problems), blood vessel problems, diabetes, kidney problems, an adrenal gland tumor, or an overactive thyroid.
may cause drowsiness. These effects get aggravated if you take it with alcohol or certain other medications (sleep aids, muscle relaxers). So, do not drive or perform other potentially hazardous tasks until you know how your body reacts to the drug.
You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or have a very slow heartbeat, heart block, uncontrolled heart failure, shock caused by serious heart problems, or low blood pressure after a heart attack, have an untreated adrenal gland tumor (pheochromocytoma) or you are taking mibefradil.
If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Terormin and contact your doctor immediately.
It is unknown whether Tenormin is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.
Certain drugs can interact with Tenormin and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.
Tenormin may reduce the amount of blood that flows to your feet and hands. This may cause them to feel cold and make you more sensitive to the cold. Dress warmly in cold weather. Be careful when you are out in the cold for long periods of time.
Patients who start therapy with blood pressure medication are known to feel tired in the first few weeks. Continue to take your medication even if this happens.
Tenormin may affect your blood sugar level and hide the symptoms like a rapid heartbeat. Monitor your blood sugar levels closely and contact your doctor immediately if these symptoms occur.
Tenormin should be used with extreme caution in children as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.
Ensure that you inform your doctor and your dentist about Tenormin before receiving any form of medical treatment or dental treatment or emergency surgery.
Periodic lab tests (blood pressure, blood sugar and pulse) may be recommended to monitor your health while taking the drug. Ensure that you do not miss any lab tests.
Possible Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of are cold fingers and toes, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, tiredness or weakness. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.
Other severe side effects include allergic reactions (rash, hives, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), blue fingernails, toenails, or palms, decreased sexual ability, fainting, mental or mood problems, persistent dizziness or lightheadedness, shortness of breath, sudden, unusual weight gain, swelling of hands, ankles, or feet, unusual bruising or bleeding, unusually slow heartbeat.
You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.
