What is a common side effect that patients should be instructed to recognize when beginning antihypertensive therapy?

Dizziness upon standing, often referred to as orthostatic hypotension, is a common side effect that patients may experience when starting antihypertensive therapy. When antihypertensive medications are initiated, they can cause a reduction in blood pressure, leading to a sudden drop in blood pressure when a person stands up from a sitting or lying position. This can result in lightheadedness or dizziness, which can increase the risk of falls.

Patients should be educated to rise slowly from sitting or lying down positions to help mitigate this effect. Awareness of this symptom is crucial for safety, especially in older adults or those who may have other comorbidities that could be exacerbated by sudden changes in blood pressure. Recognizing and managing dizziness upon standing can help patients adhere to their treatment plan while minimizing the risk of injury.