What are the consequences of taking more than the prescribed dose of hypertension medication?
Disease description:
Just now, my grandmother accidentally took an excessive amount of her hypertension medication. I would like to ask, what consequences could result from overdosing on hypertension medication?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Overdosing on hypertension medications may cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, leading to hypotension, with symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, tachycardia or bradycardia, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. An overdose can also affect cardiac function, reducing the heart's excitability, causing excessively slow heart rate, and even triggering severe arrhythmias. In severe cases, excessive amounts of hypertension medication can lead to shock, requiring immediate treatment.
Some hypertension medications, when overdosed, may also affect kidney function. Due to excessively low blood pressure, inadequate renal blood perfusion may impair the kidneys' excretory function. Additionally, overuse of antihypertensive drugs may lead to electrolyte disturbances, potentially causing serious complications.
If an overdose of hypertension medication is accidentally ingested, seek medical advice immediately. Do not attempt to induce vomiting or handle the situation yourself, as this may worsen the problem. Emergency medical services should be contacted immediately, or the patient should be taken to the nearest emergency department. As much information as possible regarding the medication—such as the drug name, dosage, and time of ingestion—should be provided.
