What potential side effect should diabetic patients on Atenolol monitor closely?

Atenolol is a beta-blocker commonly used to manage hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions. One of its recognized effects, especially in diabetic patients, is its ability to mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. This is particularly significant for individuals with diabetes who may rely on symptoms like increased heart rate and anxiety to alert them to low blood sugar levels.

Diabetic patients taking Atenolol should monitor their blood sugar levels closely because, while Atenolol effectively lowers blood pressure and controls heart rate, it does not directly impact glucose metabolism. Instead, its effects can obscure the warnings signs of hypoglycemia, making it more difficult for diabetic patients to recognize when their blood sugar is dangerously low. This can lead to severe complications if not addressed promptly.

Other side effects listed, such as elevated cholesterol levels, rash and itching, or heart rate fluctuation, do not have the same direct implications for the immediate health of diabetic patients in the context of Atenolol therapy as monitoring blood sugar levels does.