Mylod AT-H

Description

Mylod AT-H is a combination medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is particularly prescribed when a single medication is not sufficient to control blood pressure effectively. It also has indications for treating chest pain (angina pectoris) and in post-MI (myocardial infarction or heart attack) patients.

Product Overview

Mylod AT-H typically contains two active ingredients:

1. Amlodipine (usually 5 mg): This is a Calcium Channel Blocker (CCB). Amlodipine works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which allows blood to flow more easily and reduces blood pressure. It also helps to improve blood flow to the heart, which is beneficial for chest pain.
2. Atenolol (usually 25 mg or 50 mg): This is a Beta-blocker. Atenolol primarily works by slowing down the heart rate and reducing the force with which the heart pumps blood. This reduces the workload on the heart and helps to lower blood pressure. It also helps to reduce the frequency and severity of angina attacks.

The combination of these two drugs provides a synergistic effect, meaning they work together to achieve better blood pressure control than either drug alone.

How it works:

• Amlodipine: By blocking calcium channels in the smooth muscles of blood vessels, it prevents them from contracting, leading to vasodilation (widening of blood vessels). This reduces peripheral resistance, lowering blood pressure.
• Atenolol: By blocking beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart, it reduces the effects of adrenaline and noradrenaline. This leads to a slower heart rate and reduced myocardial contractility, resulting in lower blood pressure and reduced oxygen demand by the heart.

Dosage and Administration:

• Mylod AT-H is usually taken once daily.
• It can be taken with or without food.
• The specific dosage will be determined by your doctor based on your blood pressure, medical history, and response to treatment.
• It is crucial to take the medicine regularly at the same time each day for maximum benefit. Do not stop taking it suddenly without consulting your doctor, as abrupt withdrawal of beta-blockers can lead to serious heart problems.

Side Effects

As a combination drug, Mylod AT-H may exhibit side effects associated with either Amlodipine or Atenolol, or both.

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness (especially when standing up quickly due to blood pressure drop).
• Headache
• Fatigue/Weakness (asthenia)
• Swelling of the ankles or feet (edema), more common with Amlodipine.
• Flushing (redness and warmth of the face)
• Slow heart rate (bradycardia) due to Atenolol
• Nausea, abdominal pain, indigestion
• Altered bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
• Muscle cramps or joint pain
• Sleepiness or drowsiness
• Visual disturbances (e.g., double vision)
• Cold hands and feet (due to Atenolol)

Less Common but Potentially Serious Side Effects:

• Severe allergic reactions (angioedema): Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
• Worsening of heart failure: Especially in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.
• Exacerbation of angina or heart attack: If the medication is stopped abruptly, particularly in patients with existing heart disease.
• Very low blood pressure (hypotension): Can lead to fainting.
• Kidney or liver problems: Use with caution in patients with impaired kidney or liver function.
• Bronchospasm: Worsening of breathing difficulties in patients with asthma or COPD (more common with beta-blockers).
• Masking of hypoglycemia symptoms: In diabetic patients, Atenolol can mask the signs of low blood sugar, such as a rapid heartbeat.
• Erectile dysfunction (impotence)
• Depression, mood changes, irritability.

Precautions

Before taking Mylod AT-H, it is essential to inform your doctor about your complete medical history and any other medications you are taking.

• Pregnancy: Mylod AT-H is generally not recommended during pregnancy. Atenolol, a component, can be harmful to the fetus, particularly in later trimesters. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss alternatives with your doctor.
• Breastfeeding: Both Amlodipine and Atenolol can pass into breast milk. It is generally not recommended during breastfeeding.
• Heart Conditions:
  • Heart failure: Use with extreme caution.
  • Slow heart rate (bradycardia), second- or third-degree heart block, or very low blood pressure: Contraindicated.
  • Cardiogenic shock.
  • Unstable angina pectoris (chest pain at rest or with minimal effort).
  • Recent heart attack (within the last month).
• Asthma or COPD: Atenolol can worsen breathing difficulties. Use with caution.
• Diabetes: Beta-blockers can mask symptoms of low blood sugar. Monitor blood glucose closely.
• Kidney or Liver Disease: Dosage adjustments may be necessary. It is contraindicated in severe liver impairment.
• Pheochromocytoma (tumor of the adrenal gland): Not to be used if untreated.
• Thyrotoxicosis (overactive thyroid gland): Use with caution as beta-blockers can mask symptoms.
• Peripheral Artery Disease (e.g., Raynaud’s phenomenon): Beta-blockers can worsen symptoms of poor circulation to the extremities.
• Elderly Patients: May be more susceptible to side effects, particularly low blood pressure.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid or limit alcohol, as it can increase the risk of dizziness and low blood pressure.
• Driving or Operating Machinery: Be cautious, especially at the start of treatment or when changing dosage, as the medication can cause dizziness, sleepiness, or visual disturbances.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins, as interactions can occur. Notably, avoid concurrent use with certain drugs like clonidine (unless carefully managed), other beta-blockers, certain antidepressants, and drugs affecting heart rhythm.

Lifestyle Modifications: Mylod AT-H is most effective when combined with a healthy lifestyle, including:

• A balanced, low-sodium diet.
• Regular exercise.
• Maintaining a healthy weight.
• Stress management.
• Avoiding smoking.
• Regular monitoring of blood pressure.

Prescription

Mylod AT-H is a prescription-only medication. It must be prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional who will assess your specific medical condition, blood pressure levels, and other medications to determine if this combination is appropriate for you. Regular follow-up appointments and monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, and kidney/liver function may be required.