Patients ( n = 2038 ) were randomly assigned to receive antihypertensive treatment ( aimed at lowering systolic blood pressure by 10 % to 25 % within the first 24 hours after randomization , achieving blood pressure less than 140/90 mm Hg within 7 days , and maintaining this level during hospitalization ) or to discontinue all antihypertensive medications ( control ) during hospitalization ( n = 2033 ) .