AnnaMaria
These Common Medications Could Be Raising Your Blood Pressure Without You Knowing
If you’re one of the millions managing high blood pressure (hypertension), your daily routine probably includes medications, dietary changes, and lifestyle tweaks. But what many people don’t realize is that some everyday pills—even over-the-counter ones—might be silently working against you.
Certain medications can raise blood pressure or interfere with treatment, potentially increasing your risk of stroke, heart attack, or kidney complications. And the tricky part? Most don’t even seem dangerous at first glance.
Here are the ones to watch out for:
Decongestants (Pseudoephedrine, Phenylephrine)
These are found in many cold and flu remedies. They work by narrowing blood vessels to reduce nasal swelling—but that same effect can also raise your blood pressure.
If you have hypertension, even a simple cold treatment might spike your BP without you realizing it.
NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen)
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are popular for pain relief, but they can cause your body to retain sodium and water, which puts extra strain on your heart. Over time, this can lead to uncontrolled hypertension or kidney problems.
Certain Birth Control Pills
Some oral contraceptives can affect hormone levels and fluid balance, resulting in elevated blood pressure. The risk is higher for women over 35 who smoke or already have pre-existing hypertension.
If you’re using hormonal birth control and monitoring your BP, talk to your doctor about safer alternatives.
Stimulants for ADHD or Weight Loss
Medications that boost alertness or suppress appetite can also increase heart rate and blood pressure. This includes prescription stimulants like Adderall or Ritalin, as well as some OTC weight loss pills that contain caffeine or ephedra.
Always check the label—many “fat-burning” supplements can do more harm than good when you’re managing hypertension.
Herbal Supplements (Yes, Even the Natural Ones)
Some herbs can raise blood pressure or interfere with your meds. Common culprits include:
-
Licorice root
-
Ephedra
-
Ginseng
-
St. John’s Wort
Just because something is labeled “natural” doesn’t mean it’s harmless—especially when it comes to your heart.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe
-
Always read the label on OTC meds and supplements
-
Avoid products with warnings about high blood pressure
-
Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before trying new remedies
-
Monitor your blood pressure regularly, especially when adding something new to your routine
It’s easy to overlook a tablet when you’re treating a headache or fighting off a cold—but every pill you take affects your body. Don’t let one undo the progress you’ve made.
Just that.
