1. Avoid the Blood Pressure Pill
If you ever want to stop taking the drug your doctor has prescribed for your hypertension, you may discover that the medication has a "rebound effect." For instance, Clonidine, a drug commonly used for hypertension, will raise your blood pressure if you go off it suddenly. The rise may occur 2 to 3 days after you stop the drug and it may remain high for almost two weeks. If you use diet and exercise to bring down your high blood pressure, you can avoid the rebound hypertension you would experience with medication.
2. Examine Your Headache Medicine
If you take a prescription medicine, such as Menograine, to treat migraine pain, watch for a rebound blood pressure effect after you stop the therapy. Some migraine medications contain the same anti-hypertensive agents found in blood pressure drugs. Research your migraine medicine for side effects. If low blood pressure is one of them and your blood pressure is in the normal range, be prepared for a drop in blood pressure when you take your migraine pills. Some symptoms of low blood pressure, also called hypotension, include dizziness and lightheadedness, either while stationary or while rising, vision changes, fainting and confusion. Ask your doctors for ways to limit your chance of incurring rebound high blood pressure if you plan to stop taking this medicine.
3. Wean Off Your Dose
Your doctor will taper you off medications that can cause a rebound effect. Known as "dose tapering," you receive gradually smaller doses of the medicine until you stop altogether. This gives your body time to adjust to the changes in dosage while your kidneys gradually regulate the changes in blood pressure. Your doctor will prescribe a specific strategy, which you must follow or you'll experience blood pressure spikes. Sustained high blood pressure damages your vital organs, so tell your doctor about any new symptoms you may experience.
Member Comments