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A.
Stamlo Beta is the brand name of a combination product that contains amlodipine and atenolol. Atenolol decreases pulse rate. Recent research indicates that atenolol can precipitate diabetes and is less effective than other agents, apart from causing erectile dysfunction in sexually active males. Hence, it should not be used unless other medicines are ineffective. As per globally accepted guidelines, in patients younger than 55, first choice initial therapy should be Enalapril (sold under various brand names such as Enam) 5-10 mg 1-2 times daily as needed. In cases where Enalapril is not tolerated (in some patients it causes persistent dry cough), Losartan (sold as Lozitan) 50-100 mg once daily can be used. If two drugs are required, then add amlodipine 5 mg or a diuretic such as metolazone (sold as Metoz) 2.5 mg in the morning.
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