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[Can treatment be stopped when mild hypertension is controlled?]
Harefuah
|February 1, 1989
Summary
Many patients with mild hypertension remain normotensive after stopping medication. Careful monitoring is advised for potential hypertension recurrence after drug withdrawal.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Mild hypertension management.
- Antihypertensive drug withdrawal.
- Long-term normotensive outcomes.
Purpose:
- To assess the feasibility and outcomes of discontinuing antihypertensive medication in patients with mild hypertension.
- To evaluate the rate of sustained normotension after drug cessation.
Summary:
- Antihypertensive medication was withdrawn in 20 mild hypertension patients without left ventricular hypertrophy or fundoscopy abnormalities.
- At 12 and 24 months, 60% and 34% remained normotensive, respectively.
- Therapy was reinstituted in 3 patients; 8 self-initiated restart despite normal blood pressure; 3 dropped out.
Impact:
- Suggests a significant proportion of mild hypertensives can maintain normal blood pressure after stopping medication.
- Supports the temporary withdrawal of antihypertensive therapy for mild hypertension after a period of control.
- Highlights the need for careful follow-up and prompt reinstitution of therapy if hypertension recurs.