Clonidine withdrawal complicated by amitriptyline therapy

Abstract

Withdrawal from clonidine characterized by rebound hypertension and tachycardia is a recognized, but infrequent, complication of therapy with this drug. The withdrawal syndrome may be exacerbated by other drug therapy, particularly beta adrenergic receptor blockers. We recently encountered a patient who had a lengthy period of rebound hypertension, tachycardia, and anxiety after sudden cessation of clonidine and amitriptyline therapy. A case report is presented.