Safe discontinuation of antihypertensive therapy
J. K. Kirk and S. H. Johnson
Department of Family and Community Medicine, Bowman Gray School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC.
We summarize herein the clinical and pathophysiological features of
antihypertensive withdrawal syndrome and its risk factors, management, and
prevention. Antihypertensive withdrawal syndrome occurs most frequently
with beta-blocking agents and centrally acting antihypertensives such as
clonidine hydrochloride. This syndrome resembles a state of sympathetic
nervous system hyperactivity. In the most critical case, it can be severe
and life threatening. Antihypertensive dosages, particularly for
beta-blockers and clonidine, should be tapered slowly rather than
discontinued abruptly.
