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Atenolol belongs to the phenylacetamides, a subclass of benzene and substituted derivatives within the organic compounds. This exogenous compound has the formula C14H22N2O3 and an average molecular weight of 266.34 g/mol. At room temperature, it exists as a solid. It is classified as a drug, beta-adrenergic antagonist, anti-arrhythmia drug, antihypertensive agent, and sympatholytic agent (PMC7322786 ). Atenolol is used in the treatment of heart failure (PMC11550835 ), hypertension (PMC11550835 ), high blood pressure (PMC7322786 , PMC7990384 ), and essential hypertension (PMC7643053 ).
The compound targets the Beta-1 adrenergic receptor (ADRB1) and the Beta-2 adrenergic receptor (ADRB2). By competing with sympathomimetic neurotransmitters like catecholamines for binding at beta(1)-adrenergic receptors in the vascular smooth muscle and heart, it inhibits sympathetic stimulation, which leads to a reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, cardiac output, resting heart rate, and reflex orthostatic hypotension. At higher doses, atenolol also competitively blocks beta(2)-adrenergic responses in the vascular and bronchial smooth muscles.
Atenolol has been recorded in 44 sources, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals & veterinary products (Beta blocking agents), drinking water & water supply (Drinking water), food, food processing & cookware, building & construction, household cleaning & consumer products, and electrical & electronic equipment. Exposure routes include oral, intravenous, inhalation, buccal, sublingual, and transmucosal.
Like metoprolol, atenolol competes with sympathomimetic neurotransmitters such as catecholamines for binding at beta(1)-adrenergic receptors in the heart and vascular smooth muscle, inhibiting sympathetic stimulation. This results in a reduction in resting heart rate, cardiac output, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and reflex orthostatic hypotension. Higher doses of atenolol also competitively block beta(2)-adrenergic responses in the bronchial and vascular smooth muscles.
No indication of carcinogenicity to humans (not listed by IARC).
Minimum Risk Level
Not Available
Symptoms
Symptoms of an atenolol overdose include a slow heart beat, shortness of breath, fainting, dizziness, weakness, confusion, nausea, and vomiting.
Treatment
Not Available
Health Effects
Health Effect
Relationship
Direction
Description
Reference
hypertension
Not Available
Not Available
A disorder characterized by a pathological increase in blood pressure; a repeatedly elevation in the blood pressure exceeding 140 over 90 mm Hg. (NCI CTCAE)
A disorder characterized by the inability of the heart to pump blood at an adequate volume to meet tissue metabolic requirements, or, the ability to do so only at an elevation in the filling pressure. (NCI CTCAE)
An artery disease that is characterized by plaque building up along the inner walls of the arteries of the heart resulting in a narrowing of the arteries and a reduced blood supply to the cardiac muscles. (DO)
A brain disease that is characterized by moderate to severe headaches, nausea, extreme sensitivity to light and sound and intense unilaterial throbbing or pulsing. (DO)
Soil?Soil serves as a critical medium for plant growth and sustains various ecological functions; however, it can become a reservoir for synthetic chemical contamination.
Indoor air?Indoor air can be a significant reservoir for synthetic chemical contaminants, which often originate from various sources within enclosed environments.
Stormwater runoff?Stormwater runoff refers to the flow of rainwater or melted snow that does not soak into the ground and instead collects pollutants as it travels over impervious surfaces such as roads and parking lots.
Drinking water?Drinking water can be a medium for synthetic chemical contamination, often originating from various industrial processes and agricultural practices.
Ballast water?Ballast water, taken on by ships to maintain stability and balance, often contains a diverse array of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and plankton.
Bilge water?Bilge water is a byproduct generated from the accumulation of water in the lowest part of a ship's hull, which may include a mixture of seawater, oil, fuel residues, and various contaminants.
Brushes?Brushes used in personal care and cosmetics can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and coatings used in their manufacturing.
Beta blocking agents?Beta blocking agents, or beta-blockers, are a class of synthetic chemicals commonly used to manage cardiovascular conditions, such as hypertension and arrhythmias.
Effluent?Effluent refers to liquid waste or sewage that is discharged into the environment, typically resulting from industrial processes, municipal wastewater treatment, or agricultural runoff.
Ceilings?Ceilings in built environments can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials used in their construction and finishes.
Fencing?Fencing materials, particularly those used in construction and landscaping, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the treatments and coatings applied for durability and weather resistance.
Floors?Floors in built environments can be a significant source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and finishes used in their construction.
Sunshades Awnings Or Outside Screens?Sunshades, awnings, and outside screens are often constructed using synthetic materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyester, or acrylic fabrics.
Sunshades Awnings Or Outside Screens?Sunshades, awnings, and outside screens are commonly used in construction to enhance energy efficiency and provide shade.
Adjustable Resistors?Adjustable resistors, commonly used in various electronic devices, can contribute to synthetic chemical contamination through the materials and substances used in their manufacturing and disposal.
Amplifiers?Amplifiers, commonly used in various electronic devices to enhance signal strength, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and processes involved in their production and disposal.
Antennas?Antennas, commonly used in communication technologies, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination through the materials and coatings used in their construction.
Conductors Or Conductive Bodies Characterised By The Conductive Materials?Conductors, or conductive bodies, are materials that allow the flow of electrical current, typically made from metals such as copper, aluminum, or silver.
Discharge Lamps?Discharge lamps, including fluorescent and high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps, are commonly used for lighting applications due to their energy efficiency and brightness.
Electric Switches?Electric switches, integral components in numerous devices, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and manufacturing processes involved in their production.
Electrically Stimulated Smoking Devices?Electrically stimulated smoking devices, commonly known as e-cigarettes or vape pens, utilize electrical components to heat a liquid solution, often containing nicotine, flavorings, and other additives, to produce an aerosol for inhalation.
Electrodes?Electrodes, used in various electrical and electronic applications, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials from which they are constructed and the processes involved in their manufacturing.
Emergency Protective Devices?Emergency protective devices, such as circuit breakers and surge protectors, are essential components in electrical systems designed to prevent damage from overcurrent and surges.
Fixed Capacitors And Their Manufacture?Fixed capacitors are passive electronic components used to store and release electrical energy, playing a critical role in various circuits.
Gas Filled Discharge Tubes With Solid Cathode?Gas Filled Discharge Tubes with Solid Cathodes are electrical components that facilitate the flow of current by ionizing gas within a sealed tube.
Hybrid Capacitors?Hybrid capacitors are energy storage devices that combine the properties of electrolytic and supercapacitors, utilizing a combination of electrochemical principles to achieve higher energy density and power density.
Line Transmission Systems?Line Transmission Systems, commonly used for the distribution of electrical energy, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination through the insulation materials and coatings utilized in their construction.
Magnets?Magnets, commonly used in various electrical and electronic applications, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials used in their production.
Television Systems?Television systems can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the various materials and components used in their manufacture and operation.
Food Preservation?Food preservation often involves the use of synthetic chemicals, such as preservatives, flavor enhancers, and color additives, to extend shelf life and enhance the sensory qualities of food products.
Treatment Of Hops?Hops, a key ingredient in brewing and food flavoring, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to various agricultural practices.
Bleaching Agents?Bleaching agents are chemical substances used to whiten or lighten materials, often employed in various cleaning products for their stain removal and disinfecting properties.
Non Electric Simulated Smoking Devices?Non-electric simulated smoking devices, often designed to mimic the experience of smoking without combustion, can be sources of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and chemicals used in their construction and operation.
Other Smoking Requisites?Other smoking requisites, including items such as lighters, matches, and rolling papers, can introduce synthetic chemical contamination through various components and additives.
Perfumes Within Detergents And Soaps?Perfumes within detergents and soaps are synthetic fragrance compounds added to enhance the sensory experience of cleaning products.
Pipe Accessories?Pipe accessories, such as fittings, connectors, and seals, are components used in plumbing systems to facilitate the flow of liquids and gases.
Soap Detergents?Soap detergents are synthetic surfactants designed to enhance the cleaning efficacy of water by reducing surface tension, allowing for better interaction with dirt and grease.
Tobacco Pipes?Tobacco pipes, often made from materials such as plastic, wood, or metal, can serve as sources of synthetic chemical contamination due to the residues left by tobacco products.
Tobacco Smoke Filters?Tobacco smoke filters are designed to reduce the inhalation of harmful substances in cigarette smoke, including tar and other particulate matter.
Manufacture Of Iron Or Steel?The manufacture of iron or steel involves various processes, including smelting, refining, and alloying, which can result in the release of synthetic chemicals and contaminants.
Manufacture Preparation Of Tobacco Products?The manufacture and preparation of tobacco products involve various processes that can result in the introduction of synthetic chemicals into the environment.
Paper Making Machines?Paper making machines utilize various synthetic chemicals throughout the production process, including additives, coatings, and bleaching agents.
Anchoring Equipment?Anchoring equipment, commonly used in marine applications, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and coatings utilized in their manufacturing.
Marine Propulsion Or Steering?Marine propulsion and steering systems often rely on various synthetic chemicals, including lubricants, fuels, and hydraulic fluids.
Ships?Ships, as vehicles for international trade and transportation, can be significant sources of synthetic chemical contamination in marine environments.
Molluscicides?Molluscicides are synthetic chemicals specifically designed to control and eliminate mollusks, such as snails and slugs, which can be detrimental to crops and agricultural productivity.
Nematocides?Nematocides are synthetic chemicals specifically designed to control nematodes, which are microscopic roundworms that can cause significant damage to crops and plants.
Rodenticides(1)?Rodenticides are synthetic chemicals specifically formulated to control rodent populations, serving as a crucial tool in managing pests that can damage crops and spread diseases.
Rodenticides?Rodenticides are chemical substances specifically designed to control rodent populations by causing death through various mechanisms, including anticoagulation or neurotoxicity.
Aftersun Products?Aftersun products are designed to soothe and hydrate the skin after sun exposure, often containing various synthetic chemicals such as emollients, preservatives, and fragrances.
Anti Perspirants Or Body Deoderants?Antiperspirants and body deodorants commonly contain synthetic chemicals such as aluminum compounds, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.
Essential Oils Or Perfumes?Essential oils and perfumes are complex mixtures of volatile compounds derived from natural or synthetic sources, commonly used for their aromatic properties.
Eye Makeup Products?Eye makeup products, including mascaras, eyeliners, and eyeshadows, often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals such as pigments, preservatives, and film-forming agents.
Lip Makeup Products?Lip makeup products, such as lipsticks, lip glosses, and lip liners, often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals, including pigments, preservatives, and emollients.
Card Games?Card games often utilize synthetic materials for playing cards and associated gaming equipment, which may contain various chemicals such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), plastics, and dyes.
Toys?Toys, particularly those made from synthetic materials such as plastics, can be a source of chemical contamination due to the presence of various additives and compounds used in their production.
Anthraquinone Dyes?Anthraquinone dyes are a class of synthetic organic compounds characterized by their vibrant colors and stability, making them widely used in various applications, particularly in coloring textiles and leather.
Azo Dyes?Azo dyes are synthetic organic compounds characterized by the presence of one or more azo groups (-N=N-), which are widely used for coloring textiles, leather, and furnishings.
Buckles?Buckles, commonly used as fasteners in clothing, accessories, and furniture, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and coatings employed in their production.
Footwear?Footwear production often involves the use of various synthetic chemicals, such as adhesives, dyes, and treatments, which can contribute to environmental contamination.
Purses Luggage Hand Bags?Purses, luggage, and handbags are often manufactured using synthetic materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane, and various types of nylon.
Sleeve Links?Sleeve links are components typically used in the manufacturing of garments and accessories, particularly in the production of high-quality clothing items.
Umbrellas?Umbrellas are commonly manufactured using synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which can contribute to synthetic chemical contamination.
Yarns Or Threads?Yarns or threads used in textiles can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the production processes and treatments they undergo.
Non-PFAS Fire Fighting Foam?Non-PFAS fire fighting foam refers to fire suppression agents that do not contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are synthetic chemicals known for their water- and grease-resistant properties.
PFAS Fire Fighting Foam?PFAS fire fighting foam refers to a class of synthetic foams containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are designed to suppress flammable liquid fires.
Airplanes And Helicopters?Airplanes and helicopters are significant sources of synthetic chemical contamination primarily through the use of aviation fuels, lubricants, and de-icing agents.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles?Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, utilize various synthetic chemicals in their manufacturing, operation, and maintenance processes.
Bridle Bits?Bridle bits, commonly used in equestrian activities, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination primarily through the materials used in their manufacturing.
Horse Reins?Horse reins, often made from synthetic materials such as nylon or polyester, can be a source of chemical contamination due to their production and degradation processes.
Nitrogenous Fertilisers?Nitrogenous fertilizers are synthetic chemical compounds primarily used to enhance plant growth by supplying essential nitrogen, a crucial nutrient for photosynthesis and protein synthesis.
Cements?Cements are a composite material primarily used as a binding agent in construction applications, formed by the calcination of limestone and clay minerals at high temperatures.
Clay Wares?Clay wares are ceramic products made from natural clay, often utilized in various construction applications such as tiles, bricks, and sanitary ware.
Glass Coatings?Glass coatings are synthetic chemical formulations applied to glass surfaces to enhance properties such as durability, UV resistance, and aesthetic appeal.
Silica Glass?Silica glass, primarily composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2), is widely used in various applications, including windows, glass facades, and insulation materials.
Nanotechnology?Nanotechnology involves the manipulation of materials at the molecular or atomic level, typically within the range of 1 to 100 nanometers.
Mining Or Quarrying?Mining and quarrying operations can lead to synthetic chemical contamination through the release of various pollutants associated with the extraction and processing of minerals.
Combination Pens?Combination pens, which typically contain both ink and additional functionalities such as highlighters or stylus tips, may contribute to synthetic chemical contamination primarily through their ink formulations and plastic components.
Fountain Pens?Fountain pens utilize a liquid ink that often contains synthetic chemicals, including dyes, pigments, and solvents, which can contribute to environmental contamination.
Ink Receptacles?Ink receptacles, commonly utilized in printing processes, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the solvents, pigments, and additives contained within the inks.
Ink Reservoir Pens2?Ink reservoir pens are writing instruments that utilize a reservoir to store ink, which is often composed of synthetic dyes, solvents, and additives.
Coating Compositions?Coating compositions, which include paints, sealants, and varnishes, are formulated with a variety of synthetic chemicals such as solvents, resins, pigments, and additives.
Water, Wastewater, & Sewage Treatment?Water, wastewater, and sewage treatment processes are critical for managing and mitigating pollutants in water systems.
Like metoprolol, atenolol competes with sympathomimetic neurotransmitters such as catecholamines for binding at beta(1)-adrenergic receptors in the heart and vascular smooth muscle, inhibiting sympathetic stimulation. This results in a reduction in resting heart rate, cardiac output, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and reflex orthostatic hypotension. Higher doses of atenolol also competitively block beta(2)-adrenergic responses in the bronchial and vascular smooth muscles.
Barrett, A.M., Carter, J., Hull, R., Le Count, D.J. and Squire, C.J.; U.S. Patent 3,663,607;
May 16, 1972; assigned to Imperial Chemical Industries Limited, England.
Barrett, A.M., Carter, J., Hull, R., Le Count, D.J. and Squire, C.J.; U.S. Patent 3,836,671;
September 17, 1974; assigned to Imperial Chemical Industries Limited, England.