The duration of subsequent prescriptions should be based on the need for future follow up. If the patient needs to be reevaluated in 6 weeks the prescription should likely be written for that time period. Once the best dose for a particular patient has been determined and if chronic therapy is required, the duration of the prescription should reflect the requirement for reassessment. Dose-response relationships with antihypertensive drugs. Sheinen LB, et al.
Study designs for dose ranging.
Clin Pharmac Ther. Finnerty F. Step down therapy for hypertension. Post Graduate Medicine. Chadwick D. Randomized study of antiepileptic drug withdrawal in patient in remission. Back to Therapeutics Letter .