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Compare Norvasc vs. Atenolol

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

Key takeaways

Amlodipine (Norvasc) and Atenolol (Tenormin) are both used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain (angina), but they belong to different medication classes. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for your heart to pump blood. Atenolol, on the other hand, is a beta-blocker that slows down your heart rate to reduce the workload on your heart. Amlodipine is available in both tablet and liquid forms, making it a good option if you have trouble swallowing pills, while Atenolol is only available in tablet form. Amlodipine can cause swelling in your hands and feet, whereas Atenolol might give you cold hands and feet. Both medications may cause tiredness. Additionally, Atenolol is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, while the safety of Amlodipine during pregnancy is still certain. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics.

  • Amlodipine (Norvasc)
    Atenolol (Tenormin)
  • Amlodipine (Norvasc)
    Atenolol (Tenormin)

  • Summary of Norvasc vs. Atenolol

    Summary for Calcium channel blocker (CCB)
    Prescription only

    Amlodipine tablets, also known as the brand name Norvasc, help treat high blood pressure in adults and children. It can also help with coronary artery disease, including related angina or chest pain. This medication belongs to the drug class called calcium channel blockers. The tablets are taken by mouth once a day. Some side effects can include tiredness and swelling of the hands and feet.

    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 Norvasc vs. Atenolol

    Indications for
    •High blood pressure
    •Coronary artery disease, including some types of chest pain (angina)
    Indications for
    •High blood pressure
    •Chest pain (stable angina)
    •Lower risk of death after heart attack

  • Pros and Cons of Norvasc vs. Atenolol

    Pros and Const for Calcium channel blocker (CCB)
    Pros
    •A first-choice option for high blood pressure
    •Taken just once daily
    •Can take with or without food
    Cons
    •Can cause swelling in the legs
    •Can cause dizziness, so it can raise the risk of falls
    •Might need dose adjustments for people with liver problems to keep them safe
    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 Norvasc vs. Atenolol

    Common Side Effects for
    •Tiredness (5%)
    •Nausea (3%)
    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 Norvasc vs. Atenolol

    Common Side Effects for
    •Low blood pressure
    •Worsening chest pain and risk of heart attack
    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 Norvasc vs. Atenolol

    Learn more about Amlodipine
    Learn more about Atenolol

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