Never suddenly stop taking a prescription medication unless you are directed to do so by your health care provider.
Yesterday my mother called to tell me how pleased she is that her blood pressure crisis is over. Her blood pressure has been in the 110/70 range for over a week now. So she can stop taking her blood pressure medicine. NO!!!!!
She had an episode during the holidays where it was as high as 236/110 after a minor procedure was performed in the hospital outpatient department. Subsequently she was started on medications to control her blood pressure. Her BP has been borderline for awhile and now she needs medication.
We've had this conversation many times when I have complained to her that my patients (I never revealed identifying information about them) just don't seem to understand that the blood pressure medication doesn't cure the high blood pressure; it keeps it under control. My mother is an intelligent and highly educated woman. Why is she making this same error? Why is she thinking she can just stop taking the medication?
Even highly educated people can be considered "illiterate" when it comes to the health care. She doesn't understand that the blood pressure medication is not like an antibiotic. You don't just take it until the bottle is empty.
Blood pressure medications come in many different varieties, but they do not cure high blood pressure. They control it, and they must be taken for the rest of your life, unless you are directed otherwise.
Occassionally, an episode of high blood pressure can be due to extenuating circumstances, and after a period of treatment, it may resolve. However, this is not the norm. The vast majority will have to continue on the medication for the duration.
- When the bottle is empty (and preferrably before then) you have to refill the prescription.
- You need to monitor your blood pressure to ensure the treatment is effective.
- Sometimes the dose will need to be adjusted if your blood pressure remains high or if it drops too low. But you will most likely continue to need medication.
- You will also need to see your physician at regular intervals for medication management.
Always ask your physician or pharmacist how long you'll need to take a medication. Follow directions carefully and ask questions. Report reactions to the medications. Some will be normal, but your health care provider needs to know about them.
Never stop taking a medication without consulting your health care provider!
(Note: Yes, I have permission to discuss my mother's health care issues.)
