Getting OFF Atenelol

  Hi again! I have written several times here and I want to make sure that all of the
  doctors on this forum are greatly appreciated! I was just wondering how long a beta blocker like Atenelol stays in the blood stream!
  I am going off of it because it has been making my asthma worse! However, I have been experiencing tachycardia as I go off the Atenelol! How long does
  the transition usually last and can it be dangerous?  i only take 12 1/2 mg in the am and again in the pm. I think this is a low dose anyway! Also does this low dose usually cause asthma problems?
  I almost hate going off the Atenelol because it has helped my tachycardia (caused from anxiety) a lot! I also have a prescription for KLonopin. Could this hel pwith the tachycardia in place of the Atenelol?
  Is Klonopin and Atenelol safe to use together since they both lower heart rate? My doctor assured me it was safe! Thanks again! You all have
  been a lot of help to me and my hypochondria!!! :)
  Jamie
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Dear Jamie:
The dose of atenolol you are on is low. Nevertheless, I would favor tapering the dose over a few days, such as by stopping the evening dose for a few days, and then stopping altogether. However, you should discuss the specifics of stopping the medicine with your own doctor, and do what he tells you to.
Even this low dose can cause asthma to worsen. Stopping atenolol abruptly can cause problems, but usually in people that have angina or hypertension.
It should be safe to use Klonopin and atenolol together. Klonopin is an anti-anxiety medication and is not directly a treatment for tachycardia.
Information provided here is for general purposes only.  Only your doctor can provide specific diagnoses and treatments.  If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment at Desk F15 with a cardiologist.