Atenolol is a beta blocker commonly used by veterinarians to treat
specific heart rhythm problems, hypertension, or hypertrophic
cardiomyopathy in cats. This class of drugs works to block the beta
specific receptors which in turn can reduce symptoms such as
artificially increased blood sugar, a too-fast heart rate, and increased
blood pressure – similar to the effects of an ‘adrenalin rush’.
specific heart rhythm problems, hypertension, or hypertrophic
cardiomyopathy in cats. This class of drugs works to block the beta
specific receptors which in turn can reduce symptoms such as
artificially increased blood sugar, a too-fast heart rate, and increased
blood pressure – similar to the effects of an ‘adrenalin rush’.
Interesting Summary Points:
- Using beta blockers in cats with HCM did not influence symptoms
- Using beta blockers in cats with HCM did not extend or shorten life
- Beta blockers did reduce blood pressure and reduce heart rate which are desirable in HCM cases
- Beta blockers are well tolerated by cats and their dosing is pretty consistent and well worked out.
- Metoprolol is, at this writing, discontinued.
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