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Compare Lopressor vs. Atenolol

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor) and atenolol (Tenormin) are both beta blockers used to treat high blood pressure, chest pain, and to lower the risk of death after a heart attack. One key difference is that metoprolol tartrate is typically taken twice daily, while atenolol is usually taken once daily. Metoprolol tartrate should be taken with food to reduce side effects, whereas atenolol can be taken without regard to meals. Metoprolol tartrate is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms, while atenolol is only available in an immediate-release form. Both medications can cause dizziness and tiredness, but atenolol is more likely to cause cold hands and feet. Additionally, atenolol is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, while metoprolol tartrate may be an option for breastfeeding mothers. Both medications are available as lower-cost generic versions.

  • Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor)
    Atenolol (Tenormin)
  • Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor)
    Atenolol (Tenormin)

  • Summary of Lopressor vs. Atenolol

    Summary for Beta blocker
    Prescription only

    Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor) is a beta blocker used to treat chest pain and high blood pressure in adults. It can also lower the risk of death after a heart attack. You take it by mouth, typically once or twice a day, but your dose depends on your condition. Side effects include dizziness, shortness of breath, and it can make you tired.

    Summary for Beta blocker
    Prescription only

    Atenolol (Tenormin) is a cardioselective beta-blocker that's used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain. It's also used to lower the risk of death after a heart attack. Atenolol (Tenormin) works by slowing down heart rate and making it easier for your heart to pump blood. Atenolol (Tenormin) is taken by mouth, typically once daily. Some common side effects of this medication include dizziness, feeling tired, and having cold hands and feet.

  • Indications of Lopressor vs. Atenolol

    Indications for
    •High blood pressure
    •Chest pain (angina)
    •Lower risk of death after a heart attack
    Indications for
    •High blood pressure
    •Chest pain (stable angina)
    •Lower risk of death after heart attack

  • Pros and Cons of Lopressor vs. Atenolol

    Pros and Const for Beta blocker
    Pros
    •Fast-acting — works quickly after you take it
    •First choice treatment after a heart attack
    •Available in different strengths, so your dose can be adjusted easily
    •Possible option for those who are breastfeeding
    Cons
    •Need to take with food
    •Typically need to take more than once a day
    •Not a first-choice treatment for high blood pressure, unless you have certain heart conditions
    •Can hide symptoms of low blood sugar
    Pros and Const for Beta blocker
    Pros
    •A first-choice treatment to prevent chest pains (angina)
    •Lower risk of wheezing and breathing problems compared to non-selective beta blockers
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    Cons
    •Can hide some symptoms of low blood sugar
    •Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
    •Stopping treatment suddenly can raise the risk of heart attack and stroke

  • Common Side Effects of Lopressor vs. Atenolol

    Common Side Effects for
    •Tiredness (10%)
    •Dizziness (10%)
    •Diarrhea (5%)
    •Rash (5%)
    •Depression (5%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Feeling tired (up to 26%)
    •Dizziness (up to 13%)
    •Cold hands and feet (up to 12%)
    •Feeling depressed (up to 12%)
    •Trouble catching your breath (up to 6%)

    Note: Side effects were reported by people who took atenolol for high blood pressure

  • Warnings of Lopressor vs. Atenolol

    Common Side Effects for
    •Risks of stopping treatment suddenly
    •Worsening heart failure
    •Risk of difficulty breathing
    •Major surgery
    •Hiding symptoms of low blood sugar
    •Hiding symptoms of overactive thyroid
    •Severe allergic reactions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening chest pain, heart attacks, and irregular heartbeat
    •Heart failure
    •Risk of difficulty breathing
    •Greater risk during surgery
    •Hiding symptoms of low blood sugar
    •Hiding symptoms of overactive thyroid
    •Risk of heart block (medication interaction)
    •Risk of harm to unborn and breastfed babies

  • Prices with our coupons for Lopressor vs. Atenolol

    Learn more about Metoprolol tartrate
    Learn more about Atenolol

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