Arterial Thrombosis With Combined Clonidine Hydrochloride and Propranalol Hydrochloride Therapy

Abstract

To the Editor. —A report of serious adverse reactions to the combined use of clonidine hydrochloride and propranolol hydrochloride appeared in the FebruaryArchives(139:254, 1979). There is little specific information in the medical literature concerning the combined use of clonidine and β-adrenergic blocking drugs. 1 We are reporting a case of arterial thrombosis and gangrene requiring amputation. Report of a Case. —A 37-year-old obese hypertensive woman treated with 0.2 mg of clonidine hydrochloride twice a day and 5 mg of methyclothiazide daily for six months was found to have hyperthyroidism in the course of preoperative evaluation. Twelve years previously, while taking birth control pills, thrombophlebitis occurred and was treated with dicumarol. Breast trauma at this time resulted in hemorrhage and gangrene that required partial excision of the breast. Comment. —The hyperthyroid condition was treated with sodium iodide I 131 and propranolol. Mild leg pain, which occurred after propranolol therapy