What is the generic name for the drug marketed as Tenormin?

The correct response, Atenolol, is the generic name for the drug Tenormin, which is classified as a beta-blocker. Beta-blockers are commonly prescribed to manage conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and angina (chest pain). The primary action of Atenolol involves blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart and blood vessels, leading to a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure. This makes it effective in reducing the workload on the heart.

Understanding the other options provides context as to why they do not answer the question. Lisinopril, for instance, is an ACE inhibitor, primarily used for the treatment of high blood pressure and heart failure, but it is not related to the action of beta-blockers. Amlodipine belongs to the class of calcium channel blockers, which have a different mechanism of action focused on relaxing blood vessels. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic used primarily to treat high blood pressure by promoting urine production to reduce fluid retention. Each of these medications has distinct pharmacological properties and uses, differentiating them from Atenolol.