Can I stop taking antihypertensive medications after using them?

Jul 18, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have hypertension and need to take antihypertensive medication. Doctor, after taking antihypertensive drugs, can I stop taking them?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xin
In general, hypertension is a chronic condition that requires long-term medication to control blood pressure. As long as blood pressure is well controlled, discontinuation of medication is usually not recommended. This is because abruptly stopping medication may lead to a rebound increase in blood pressure and even trigger more severe complications, such as withdrawal syndrome, hypertensive crisis, or cerebral infarction. These complications may include symptoms like elevated blood pressure, headache, dizziness, fatigue, palpitations, irritability, and, in severe cases, may even be life-threatening. In some special circumstances, such as when a patient develops severe heart failure, acute myocardial infarction (right ventricular infarction), or renal failure, resulting in inherently low blood pressure, antihypertensive medications may need to be discontinued under a doctor's guidance. If a patient's blood pressure drops too low after taking antihypertensive medication and symptoms of discomfort occur, the dosage should also be gradually reduced or discontinued under the guidance of a doctor.