What type of response might occur if Atenolol is withdrawn abruptly?

When Atenolol is withdrawn abruptly, the most notable response that can occur is exacerbation of angina. Atenolol is a beta-blocker commonly used to manage various cardiovascular conditions, including hypertension and angina pectoris. It works by blocking the effects of adrenaline on beta-adrenergic receptors, leading to a decrease in heart rate and contractility, which ultimately reduces myocardial oxygen demand.

If Atenolol is suddenly stopped, the underlying sympathetic tone can increase significantly, leading to rebound effects. This increase in sympathetic activity can cause a marked increase in heart rate and myocardial contractility, which may result in higher oxygen demand. For patients who have angina, this can trigger episodes of chest pain as the coronary arteries, often compromised, may not be able to supply enough blood to meet the heart's increased demands.

While increased heart rate is also a possibility due to the withdrawal of the medication, it does not directly relate to the worsening of angina experienced by many patients who rely on Atenolol for symptom management. Reduced blood pressure may not occur since the rebound effect tends to elevate blood pressure rather than decrease it. Worsening of depression isn't a commonly documented direct effect of abrupt withdrawal from Atenolol, although withdrawal from various