Managing Hypertension Medications: A Case Study and Concerns - Cardiology

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Issues with Hypertension Medications


Hello Doctor, a 42-year-old female patient was originally taking Amlodipine 40 mg, with a blood pressure of 120/90.
She switched to Shumai Kang 5/20 mg, but experienced dizziness and discomfort after taking one tablet, with blood pressure readings of 109/83.
After reducing the dosage to half a tablet, she still experienced dizziness, with blood pressure at 115/85.
However, by the fourth day, her blood pressure dropped to 99/85.
She is now taking Maiyou 5 mg, with a reading of 118/85 and mild discomfort.
Can she switch to only taking Maiyou 5 mg? Additionally, she has not had her menstrual period for two months after starting the blood pressure medication and is not pregnant.
Should she consult a gynecologist or a hypertension specialist? Thank you.

Qiu Xiaojie, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/30

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology


Hello, can I switch to only taking Maiyou 5 and my blood pressure medication? It should not be related to my missed period; I will consult a gynecologist.
Best wishes from Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2023/07/30

More Info


Managing hypertension can be a complex process, especially when it comes to medication adjustments and managing side effects. In your case, it appears that you have been experiencing significant side effects from your current medications, specifically dizziness and discomfort, which can be quite distressing. Let's break down your situation and address your concerns.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that antihypertensive medications can have varying effects on different individuals. The medications you mentioned, such as 雅脈 (Amlodipine) and 舒脈康 (a combination of medications), are commonly used to manage high blood pressure. However, side effects like dizziness can occur, particularly when starting a new medication or adjusting dosages. Dizziness may be a result of the blood pressure dropping too low, especially if you are experiencing readings like 99/85 after taking your medication.
Given your experience of dizziness even after reducing the dosage of 舒脈康, it may be reasonable to consider switching to 脈優 (another antihypertensive) if your healthcare provider agrees. 脈優 (likely referring to a medication like Bisoprolol) is a beta-blocker that can help manage blood pressure and may have a different side effect profile compared to the other medications you have tried. However, any changes to your medication should always be discussed with your healthcare provider, as they can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

Regarding your menstrual cycle, the absence of menstruation for two months, especially when you are not pregnant, is concerning and warrants further investigation. While it may not be directly related to your blood pressure medications, hormonal changes can occur due to various factors, including stress, weight changes, and medication side effects. It would be advisable to consult a gynecologist to explore this issue further. They can conduct appropriate tests to determine the cause of your amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) and provide guidance on how to address it.

In summary, here are the steps you should consider:
1. Medication Adjustment: Discuss with your healthcare provider the possibility of switching to 脈優 (Bisoprolol) or another suitable medication that may not cause the same level of dizziness. It’s crucial to monitor your blood pressure regularly to ensure it remains within a safe range.

2. Menstrual Concerns: Schedule an appointment with a gynecologist to investigate the cause of your missed periods. They may perform tests to rule out any underlying conditions that could be affecting your menstrual cycle.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Alongside medication, consider lifestyle changes that can help manage your blood pressure, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management techniques, and avoiding excessive salt intake.

4. Regular Monitoring: Keep a log of your blood pressure readings and any side effects you experience. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in making informed decisions about your treatment plan.

Managing hypertension is a journey that often requires adjustments and close communication with your healthcare team. By taking proactive steps and addressing your concerns, you can work towards achieving better control of your blood pressure and overall health.

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