What important counseling point should patients be advised of when starting antihypertensive medications?

Patients starting antihypertensive medications should be advised to monitor their blood pressure and recognize signs of hypotension. This is crucial because antihypertensives are designed to lower blood pressure, and there is a risk that they may lower it too much, leading to hypotension. Patients should be educated on how to properly check their blood pressure at home and be aware of symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness, which can indicate that their blood pressure has dropped to an unsafe level. This proactive approach helps in managing their condition effectively and preventing adverse effects associated with excessive blood pressure reduction.