Is metoprolol or atenolol better for hypertension?īoth metoprolol and atenolol can lower blood pressure, but they aren’t interchangeable. All three are available as generic and brand-name medications: Metoprolol comes in two forms: immediate release and extended release (ER). High blood pressure (but they aren’t usually first-choice medications for this) Metoprolol and atenolol are FDA approved to treat:Ĭhest pain (angina) that happens when the heart isn’t getting enough oxygenīlood flow to the heart after a heart attack It also improves blood flow to the heart, which is important if you have a history of heart disease. This allows the heart to fill up with more blood between each beat and pump more efficiently. These medications work by preventing the heart rate from going too high. Metoprolol and atenolol are both beta blockers. 1 of 6 What are metoprolol and atenolol used for?