Is Metoprolol an effective alternative to Atenolol?
Patient: My Doctors nurse called me a couple of days ago to say Atenolol has been taken off the market. I have been on it for several years for my blood pressure. She said my Doctor has recommended that I now get Metoprolol. My Atenolol dosage was 50mg once a day. The substitute is 100 mg per day. I am 75 years old and have been on high blood pressure meds for more years than I can remember. In addition to the Atenolol I take Lisinopril 40mg/day, Hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg/per day, Amlodipine Bestylate 5mg/day, Atorvastatin 40mg/day and once a week Alendronate70mg once a week. I take a Multi Vitamin as well as other supplements daily. Please advise me as to the change in this drug to another and the dosage. The price of drugs is a major concern for me as my Medicare has not increased in the last 3 years. I appreciate your expertise and help in this matter. Thank you, Pat Malcheski mrs Doctor: Hello Yes both metoprolol and atenolol are equally effective as they both belong to Beta blocker group of medicine.Don't worry you can safely go with metoprolol.Thanks