Should hypertensive patients stop taking medication before physical examination

Whether hypertensive patients need to stop taking medication before physical examination depends on the examination items. Routine physical examinations usually do not require stopping medication, but specific blood tests or dynamic blood pressure monitoring may require adjusting medication according to medical advice.

Routine physical examinations such as blood routine, urine routine, electrocardiogram, etc. are usually not affected by antihypertensive drugs. Continuous medication can help maintain stable blood pressure and avoid blood pressure fluctuations caused by discontinuation of medication interfering with physical examination results. Most antihypertensive drugs, such as amlodipine tablets and valsartan capsules, have little impact on liver and kidney function tests. However, it should be noted that diuretic antihypertensive drugs may cause abnormal blood potassium levels, and the doctor should be informed of the medication before the physical examination. If renin-angiotensin system related hormone testing or dynamic blood pressure monitoring is required, some antihypertensive drugs may interfere with the accuracy of the test results. For example, beta blockers may affect the measurement of catecholamine levels, while angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors may interfere with renin activity detection. In such cases, it is necessary to communicate with the doctor in advance and adjust the medication plan according to the purpose of the examination. It is usually recommended to stop taking the medication 12-24 hours before the examination.

Before the physical examination, one should maintain a regular daily routine and a low salt diet, avoid vigorous exercise and emotional excitement. Bring a daily medication list for the doctor's reference, and sit quietly for 5 minutes before measuring blood pressure. If the inspection items involve medication adjustments, it is necessary to strictly follow the doctor's advice and not stop or change the dosage on your own.