title: Safe discontinuation of antihypertensive therapy.
abstract: We summarize herein the clinical and pathophysiological features of antihypertensive withdrawal syndrome and its risk factors, management, and prevention. Antihypertensive withdrawal syndrome occurs most frequently with beta-blocking agents and centrally acting antihypertensives such as clonidine hydrochloride. This syndrome resembles a state of sympathetic nervous system hyperactivity. In the most critical case, it can be severe and life threatening. Antihypertensive dosages, particularly for beta-blockers and clonidine, should be tapered slowly rather than discontinued abruptly.
authors.affiliation: Department of Family and Community Medicine, Bowman Gray School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC.
authors.forename: J K
authors.initials: JK
authors.lastname: Kirk
authors.forename: S H
authors.initials: SH
authors.lastname: Johnson
mesh_terms: D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy
chemical_list: D000959:Antihypertensive Agents