Atenolol/chlorthalidone, also known as co-tenidone, is a combination medication used to treat
high blood pressure.[2][3] It is made up of
atenolol, a
beta-blocker and
chlortalidone, a
diuretic.[4] It is not recommended as an initial treatment but may be used in those who are taking atenolol and chlortalidone individually.[5] It is taken by mouth.[2]
Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset and
gout.[3] Serious side effects may include liver problems,
pancreatitis, and
psychosis.[3] Use is not recommended during pregnancy.[3] Use during
breastfeeding may harm the baby.[2] Atenolol works by blocking
β1-adrenergic receptors in the heart, thus decreasing the heart rate and workload.[3] Chlorthalidone works by increasing the amount of
sodium lost by the kidneys.[2]
The combination was approved for medical use in the United States in 1984.[4] It is available as a
generic medication.[3] In 2017, it was the 304th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 1million prescriptions.[6]