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Atenolol crosses the placental barrier and appears in the cord blood. No studies have been performed on the use of atenolol in the first trimester or in the third trimester under close supervision for the treatment of hypertension.
Administration of atenolol to pregnant women in the management of mild to moderate hypertension has been associated with intra-uterine growth retardation.
The use of atenolol in women who are, or may become pregnant requires that the anticipated benefit be weighed against the possible risks, particularly in the first and second trimesters, since beta-adrenoceptor blocking agents in general have been associated with a decrease in placental perfusion which may result in intra-uterine deaths, immature and premature deliveries. There is significant accumulation of atenolol in breast milk. Caution should be exercised when it is administered to a nursing woman.
