Rebound hypertension during initiation of transdermal clonidine

Rebound hypertension with a neurological complication occurred during an attempt to substitute transdermal for oral clonidine in a patient with severe hypertension. Published studies have not established an unequivocal correlation between previous oral clonidine dose and the dose of transdermal clonidine required for equally effective antihypertensive therapy. Close observation of blood pressure may be advisable for at least one week following substitution of transdermal for oral clonidine, especially in patients with severe hypertension.