millions of people around the world.
If it’s not treated properly, it can lead to serious issues like heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and even problems with your eyes.
To manage high blood pressure, doctors often suggest a mix of healthy lifestyle habits—like eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise—and medications. But now, researchers from Harvard University have found a surprising reason why some people’s blood pressure remains high even when they’re following their treatment plans.
The study discovered that many people with high blood pressure are unknowingly taking other medications that make their condition harder to control. These medications may be for different health problems or bought over the counter, but they can raise blood pressure or interfere with the medicines used to treat it.
The Harvard researchers looked at a large health survey and found that almost one in five adults with high blood pressure were taking drugs that could make their blood pressure worse. Some of the most common ones included:
Pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen (NSAIDs)
Some antidepressants
Steroids used for inflammation
Hormone-based medicines, like birth control pills
Decongestants found in cold and flu medications
Weight loss drugs
People taking these kinds of medications often needed stronger doses of their blood pressure medicine, which made managing their condition more difficult and increased the chance of complications.
So, what can you do if you have high blood pressure? First, take a close look at all the medicines and supplements you use. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicine, and even vitamins. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to make sure none of them are raising your blood pressure.
It’s also important to tell all your healthcare providers about everything you’re taking. Sometimes, one doctor might not know what another has prescribed.
Next, focus on making healthy lifestyle choices. These can really help lower your blood pressure:
Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Try to eat less salt and avoid foods high in saturated fat.
Exercise most days of the week—even a daily 30-minute walk can make a difference.
Reduce stress with activities like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
If you use any of the medications listed earlier—especially pain relievers, cold medicine, or hormone treatments—ask your doctor if they could be affecting your blood pressure. Not everyone reacts the same way, but it’s better to be safe and find an alternative if needed.
The key to managing high blood pressure is not just taking the right medicine, but also being aware of how other drugs and lifestyle habits might affect your health. With the right steps and support from your healthcare team, you can take control of your blood pressure and protect your heart, kidneys, and overall well-being.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies that early time-restricted eating could help improve blood pressure, and natural coconut sugar could help reduce blood pressure and artery stiffness.
For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies about How to eat your way to healthy blood pressure and results showing that Modified traditional Chinese cuisine can lower blood pressure.
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