High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a common health issue. If not managed well, it can lead to serious problems like heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and eye issues.
Doctors often recommend a mix of lifestyle changes and medication to help control high blood pressure. This includes eating healthy, exercising, and taking blood pressure medicines as needed.
But a new study from Harvard University has revealed something surprising. Some people with high blood pressure are taking other medications—ones not meant to treat blood pressure—that may actually make their condition worse.
This finding came from a large national health survey. It showed that nearly 1 in 5 adults with high blood pressure were also taking drugs that could raise it even more. These included some common medicines like certain antidepressants, pain relievers called NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen), steroids, and even cold medicines sold in stores.
What’s more, people who took these extra medications often needed higher doses of their blood pressure drugs just to get their numbers under control.
So, what can you do if you have high blood pressure?
First, check your medications. It’s important to tell your doctor about all the drugs you’re taking—even over-the-counter ones or those prescribed by another doctor. Sometimes, one doctor may not know what another has recommended. Sharing the full list helps avoid harmful drug combinations.
Second, remember that lifestyle changes still play a big role. Eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains (not heavily processed foods) can help lower blood pressure. Reducing salty foods is also helpful.
Regular physical activity—even just walking—can make a big difference. Managing stress with activities like yoga or meditation may also help keep your numbers in a healthy range.
Here are some types of drugs that may raise blood pressure in some people:
– Pain relievers like ibuprofen
– Some antidepressants
– Steroids
– Hormone medicines like birth control pills
– Cold medicines with decongestants
– Some weight loss pills
Not everyone will have blood pressure problems from these drugs, but some people are more sensitive. That’s why it’s always best to ask your doctor or pharmacist if you’re unsure.
By staying informed and careful about what medicines you take, you can better manage your blood pressure and avoid complications. Your health is important—so speak up, ask questions, and make sure every medication you use is helping, not hurting.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about why checking blood pressure while lying down is very important and lowering top blood pressure number to less than 120 mm Hg effectively prevents heart disease.
For more about blood pressure, please read studies that turmeric and vitamin D may boost blood pressure control in type 2 diabetes and scientists find link between blood pressure drugs and bowel diseases.
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