[Use of clofelin for arresting hypertensive crises]

The authors gave clophelin by intravenous (0.1 g) or intramuscular (0.1--0.15 mg) injections to 75 patients who were in a state of hypertensive crisis. In 67 patients (89--4%) the crisis was successfully arrested. In most patients maximum hypotensive effect occurred 10--20 minutes after intravenous injection and 20--30 minutes after intramuscular administration. Tolerance to a single injection of the drug was good. In some cases there was a marked additional fall of arterial pressure in the orthostatic position, a sensation of dryness in the mouth, weakness and mild somnolence.