Stopped taking Atenolol two days ago now. MY readings were 137/80, but BP is now 156/95. I stopped the meds due to side effects and was hoping i would not have to go back on an alternative med when i see the doc next week. Doesn't look very hopeful unless my BP levels out and goes down again, perhaps its only a BP spike.

Have to admit i am so glad i have come of the meds. I never really realised how back it effected me until now. Three o'clock in the afternoon every day i got so tired and could hardly concentrate on my work.... thought i was just bored :p turns out that i have so much more energy and haven't any problems concentrating in the last 2 days.

Regards
Paul

Paul,

Seems to me you've really had a hard time with Atenolol (mood swings, fatigue)...Also, you weren't getting great control even on an increased dosage.
Unfortunately your BP is creeping up again so discuss with your doctor other options.
In terms of side effects, the angiotensin 2 receptor blockers (ARBS) like Cozaar, Diovan, Benicar etc. are virtually free of them for most people. You might want to ask you doctor about these OR plain old HCTZ (hydrochlorthiazide), a thiazide diuretic. Very effective. OR an ARB/HCTZ combo.

zuzu xx

Atenolol was the first med my doc put me on and it sledgehammered me. Serious depression and fatigue.