Atenolol and pregnancy

[Laura B]

I have been taking Atenolol for 1 year now and only ever missed about 3 days, Prescribed by my GP as ´betablokers´ for migraines.
Me and my OH are trying for a baby for 4 months and still nothing, Ive just read the leaflet with the Atenolol and it says not to be taken if pregnant, They have helped me with migraines. what do I do? Could this be stopping me getting pregnant? It says increase chance of miscarriage too (no miscarriage history in my family), is this right?
please help, do I stop taking them now or when I finally find out im pregnant? thanks

[sazm82]

The advice I found reads:

'Before taking Atenolol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding'

So it sounds like you might be able to continue taking the beta-blockers, but you should speak to your GP about it as soon as possible.

[tenaciousd]

There are many things out there for migraines so try to explore alternatives now before you get pregnant. Off hand I can't think of any drug that lowers the blood pressure that is considered safe when you're pregnant. Try to lower you blood pressure naturally with a low sodium diet and maybe stress reduction. Then use a migraine medicine that can be used just when you really need it instead of something you have to take every day. Also have you tried just taking magnesium supplements? Other safe things that may work - chiropractic, massage, cold therapy, dietary modification, stress reduction. See if you can find triggers and control them.