Tenif

What is it?

An antianginal and antihypertensive preparation combining a cardioselective β-blocker and class II calcium antagonist, available as red- brown capsules containing 50mg of atenolol and 20mg of nifedipine in sustained-release form, marked with TENIF and S.

Medical Uses

Angina, where treatment with a β-blocker and calcium antagonist does not effect control, high blood pressure.

Dosage

Adults, 1 capsule twice each day.

Special Care

Impaired kidney or liver function, defects of heart conduction or weak heart, 1st degree heart block, anaesthesia, reversible obstructive airways disease, diabetes, asthma.

Avoid Use

Children, pregnancy, breastfeeding, angina which is unstable, heart attack in last 4 weeks, heart shock, sick sinus syndrome, slow heartbeat, severe disease of peripheral arteries, 2nd or 3rd degree heart block, narrowed aorta, seriosuly impaired kidneys, heart failure which is not under control, phaeochromocytoma (adrenal gland tumour) which is not receiving treatment, metabolic acidosis, low blood pressure.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Clonidine, quinidine, cimetidine, verapamil, disopyramide, dilitiazem, hypoglycaemic agents, grapefruit juice, rifampicin, digoxin.

Known Side Effects

Allergic-type jaundice, rashes, headache, dry eyes, overgrowth of gum tissues, dizziness, gastrointestinal upset, tiredness, breathlessness, thrombocytopenia purpera (bleeding disorder caused by decline in blood platelets), fluid retention, agranulocytosis (abnormal blood disorder with severe reduction in numbers of agranulocytes - white blood cells).