Drug

Side Effects of Medications on Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a chronic condition that requires careful management and medication adherence. However, some medications can worsen hypertension or interfere with the effectiveness of blood pressure treatments. This article explains the Side Effects of Medications on Hypertension that can exacerbate high blood pressure, precautions to take, and alternative options.


Side Effects of Medications on Hypertension

1. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Examples: Ibuprofen (e.g., Advil, Motrin), Naproxen (e.g., Aleve, Naprosyn)

  • Effects:
    • Causes fluid retention, leading to higher blood pressure.
    • Decreases kidney function, putting stress on the heart and kidneys.
    • Long-term use can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
  • Alternatives:
    • Consider using Acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) for pain relief.
    • Consult your doctor for safer options tailored to your needs.

2. Cough and Cold Medications

Common Ingredients: NSAIDs, Decongestants (e.g., Pseudoephedrine)

  • Effects:
    • Decongestants can raise blood pressure and heart rate.
    • May reduce the effectiveness of blood pressure medications.
  • Alternatives:
    • Use antihistamines (e.g., Claritin) or saline nasal sprays to relieve symptoms.
    • Ask your doctor for safe alternatives for cold relief.

3. Migraine Medications

Examples: Maxalt (Rizatriptan), Zomig (Zolmitriptan)

  • Effects:
    • Constricts blood vessels, which can raise blood pressure.
    • May increase the risk of cardiovascular complications.
  • Alternatives:
    • Explore non-drug approaches to migraine management, such as lifestyle adjustments.
    • Consult a doctor for appropriate treatment options.

4. Weight Loss Medications

Examples: Appetite Suppressants (e.g., Phentermine)

  • Effects:
    • Stimulates the nervous system, raising heart rate and blood pressure.
    • Puts excessive strain on the heart.
  • Alternatives:
    • Focus on lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, for weight management.
    • Always consult your doctor before using weight loss medications.

Tips for Safe Medication Use in Hypertension

  1. Read Labels Carefully:
    Check over-the-counter (OTC) medications for ingredients like NSAIDs or decongestants that can raise blood pressure.
  2. Consult Your Doctor:
    Share a complete list of all medications, including prescriptions, OTC drugs, and supplements, with your doctor.
  3. Find Safer Alternatives:
    Ask your doctor or pharmacist about medications that are safe for people with high blood pressure.
  4. Monitor Symptoms:
    If you notice any changes in your blood pressure after starting a new medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Understanding the impact of certain medications on hypertension is crucial for effective management. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication to ensure your blood pressure stays under control.


Vitamin E and Bone Health: Health Tips

Harvard Health Publishing

Health for All

Recent Posts

Predicting the prognosis of Chronic Kidney Disease with KFRE:

Why Is KFRE Gaining Attention? Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is often a “silent” condition. Many…

7 hours ago

Latte vs Americano: Which Is Healthier for People with Diabetes or Kidney Disease?

Coffee is part of daily life — but how does your choice affect your health?…

1 day ago

Is Vitamin B12 High in Any Fruit? A Complete Guide for People with Diabetes and Kidney Disease

✅ What Is Vitamin B12? Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is a water-soluble vitamin essential for maintaining…

7 days ago

Iron Therapy in Chronic Kidney Disease: More Than Just Anemia Treatment

Iron deficiency is a prevalent issue in chronic kidney disease (CKD), affecting approximately 30–50% of…

2 weeks ago

🥞 A Healthy Pancake Guide for People with Diabetes

— Enjoying flavor while keeping your blood sugar in check Introduction In Korea, pancakes (called…

2 weeks ago

Healthy Snack Recommendations for People with Diabetes

Managing diabetes isn’t just about controlling blood sugar during meals—it’s also about navigating the cravings…

2 weeks ago