Q: My blood pressure has been good. Why doesn’t my GP give me a 1-year prescription?
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A: Even if your blood pressure is well controlled, your GP usually prescribes medications for a shorter period, often 3–6 months, for safety reasons:
- Monitoring: Blood pressure can change over time. Shorter prescriptions make sure your doctor can check your readings, kidney function, and side effects regularly.
- Medication safety: Some blood pressure medicines can affect kidneys, electrolytes, or interact with other drugs. Regular check-ups help catch problems early.
- Adjustments: Your doctor may need to change your dose or medicine based on your health, weight, or lifestyle changes.
Bottom line: Short-term prescriptions are a safety measure, not a sign your doctor doesn’t trust your control. Regular reviews keep your treatment safe and effective.
