Why does the BNF consider it unnecessary to increase the dose of atenolol above 50 mg daily in hypertension?
In view of expert advice, the Joint Formulary Committee of the BNF agreed in 2005 that the BNF should indicate that a dose of atenolol 25–50mg is usually adequate for the treatment of hypertension. The advice is consistent with published papers1, 2. There is also an article in Drugs3 that provides useful background. The BNF is under continuous review and the dose advice for atenolol will be reviewed in the light of any new studies.
