Pharmacology and the Nursing Process by Linda Lane Lilley: Practice Exam

What can result from the abrupt discontinuation of centrally acting alpha2 receptor agonists?

1. Decreased blood pressure

2. Rebound hypertension

3. Immediate headache relief

4. Stabilized heart rate

The correct answer is: Rebound hypertension

Abrupt discontinuation of centrally acting alpha2 receptor agonists can result in rebound hypertension. This is because these medications help lower blood pressure by targeting alpha2 receptors in the central nervous system. When these medications are abruptly stopped, the body's natural response is to compensate for the sudden lack of medication by increasing blood pressure. This can lead to a sudden spike in blood pressure, resulting in rebound hypertension. The other options are incorrect because - A: Decreased blood pressure is the desired effect of centrally acting alpha2 receptor agonists, not something that results from their discontinuation. - C: Immediate headache relief is not a common side effect of these medications, and therefore would not be affected by discontinuation. - D: Stabilized heart rate may be an effect of these medications, but it is not related to their abrupt discontinuation and is not as significant as rebound hypertension