Cardiolite Plus Tablet 50/12.5mg Tablets

Atenolol and chlorthalidone are combined in one tablet to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).

• Atenolol is a beta-blocker. It slows the heart and makes it beat less forcefully.
• Chlorthalidone (also spelled chlortalidone) is a diuretic. It helps the kidneys get rid of extra water and salt.

The two work in different ways, so together they can control blood pressure better than either one alone, with just one tablet to take.

Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, usually once a day.

• Swallow the tablet with a drink of water.
• Try to take it at the same time each day.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember, unless the next dose is nearly due. Never take two doses together.
• Do not stop taking it suddenly. Your doctor may need to reduce the dose slowly.

Common side effects include:

• cold hands and feet
• a slower pulse
• feeling tired
• feeling sick or diarrhoea
• changes in blood tests, such as higher blood sugar or uric acid, or lower sodium or potassium

Get medical help straight away if you have:

• swelling of the face, lips or throat, or lumpy skin rash
• eye pain or blurred or reduced vision (this can happen within hours to weeks of starting)
• very slow heartbeat, fainting or severe dizziness
• yellow skin or eyes, or severe tummy pain
• worse breathlessness or wheezing

Do not take it if you have uncontrolled heart failure, certain heart block problems, a very slow or uneven heartbeat, very low blood pressure, very poor circulation, kidney problems, untreated phaeochromocytoma or metabolic acidosis.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:

• have ever had asthma or wheezing
• have diabetes (it can hide signs of low blood sugar)
• have an overactive thyroid, liver problems, Prinzmetal's angina or psoriasis
• are allergic to penicillin or sulfonamide medicines
• take other heart or blood pressure medicines, lithium, diabetes medicines, ibuprofen, clonidine or decongestants
• are due to have an operation or anaesthetic

Store below 25°C in the original pack to protect from light and moisture, out of the reach of children.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: do not take it if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breastfeeding. Ask your doctor about other options.

Do not stop suddenly: stopping a beta-blocker suddenly can make heart problems worse.

Driving: it is unlikely to affect driving, but do not drive if you feel dizzy or tired.

Children: not for use in children.

Blood tests: you may need regular blood tests.