Can High Blood Pressure and Kidney Issues Justify Stopping Medication?

Can medication be discontinued for hypertension, proteinuria, and poor kidney function?

Recently, my husband wants to buy a supplement in Japan called "Serum High" to replace the medication prescribed by his doctor.
The ingredients of "Serum High" include safflower oil, tocopheryl acetate (Vitamin E), pyridoxine hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), gelatin, glycerin, parabens, polyethylene glycol, and polyoxyethylene castor oil.
Is this supplement primarily for lowering blood pressure? Is it appropriate to discontinue his prescribed medication? He is concerned that if he asks his attending physician, they might refuse to allow him to stop the medication due to a desire to prescribe more.
He wants to gather information from other sources.
Thank you for your patience in reading this.

Ruo Ruo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/27

Dr. Lin Wuxuan reply Internal Medicine

Hello, to control and stabilize the condition, it is not advisable for patients to abruptly discontinue medication.
Physicians prescribe medications based on the patient's condition.
If there are any concerns regarding the medication, it is recommended to schedule a follow-up consultation.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2024/02/27

More Info

When it comes to managing high blood pressure (hypertension) and kidney issues, it is crucial to approach medication adjustments with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Stopping prescribed medications without medical advice can lead to serious health consequences, including uncontrolled blood pressure and worsening kidney function.

The product your husband is considering, which contains ingredients such as safflower oil, vitamin E, vitamin B6, and other compounds, is marketed as a dietary supplement rather than a medication. While some of these ingredients may have health benefits, they are not a substitute for antihypertensive medications prescribed by a doctor. There is no substantial scientific evidence to suggest that this supplement can effectively lower blood pressure or replace the need for prescribed medications.

1. Safety of Stopping Medication: Abruptly stopping blood pressure medications can lead to a rebound effect, causing blood pressure to spike dangerously high. This is particularly concerning for individuals with existing kidney issues, as high blood pressure can further damage the kidneys. It is essential to have a thorough discussion with a healthcare provider before making any changes to medication regimens.

2. Understanding the Role of Supplements: While dietary supplements can play a role in overall health, they should not be relied upon as a primary treatment for conditions like hypertension. The ingredients in the supplement your husband is considering may have some health benefits, but they do not have the same proven efficacy as prescription medications for managing high blood pressure.

3. Consulting with Healthcare Providers: It is understandable that your husband may feel apprehensive about discussing his concerns with his doctor, fearing that the doctor may insist on continuing medications without considering alternatives. However, open communication with healthcare providers is vital. A good doctor will appreciate a patient’s concerns and will work with them to find the best treatment plan. If your husband is worried about being dismissed, he could prepare specific questions or concerns to discuss during the appointment.

4. Monitoring and Adjusting Treatment: If your husband is experiencing side effects from his current medications or if his blood pressure is not well-controlled, it is essential to address these issues with his healthcare provider. There are many classes of antihypertensive medications, and sometimes it may be necessary to adjust dosages or switch to different medications to find the most effective and tolerable regimen.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can significantly impact blood pressure management. These include maintaining a healthy diet (such as the DASH diet), regular physical activity, managing stress, and avoiding excessive salt intake. These changes can complement medication and may help improve overall health.

In conclusion, it is not advisable for your husband to stop his blood pressure medication in favor of a dietary supplement without consulting a healthcare professional. The risks associated with uncontrolled hypertension and potential kidney damage are significant. It is essential to have an open dialogue with his doctor to explore all options, including medication adjustments and lifestyle changes, to manage his health effectively.

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