A Cardiologist Warns: Some Common Medications May Increase Heart Attack and Stroke Risk in Older Adults
As people get older, medications often become an important part of managing health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, pain, arthritis, and sleep problems. However, some medicines may carry increased risks for older adults, especially when they are taken incorrectly, combined with other drugs, or used without regular medical review.
Cardiologists and other healthcare professionals often remind older patients to review their medications regularly because certain drugs can affect blood pressure, heart rhythm, fluid balance, cholesterol levels, or blood clotting—all factors that can influence heart attack and stroke risk.
1. Certain Pain Relievers (NSAIDs)
Some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), commonly used for arthritis and pain relief, may increase cardiovascular risks in some people. These medicines can raise blood pressure, affect kidney function, and may increase the chance of heart-related complications, particularly with long-term use or higher doses.
Older adults should ask their healthcare provider which pain treatment is safest for their individual health situation.
2. Some Diabetes Medications
Diabetes medicines help control blood sugar, but treatment needs to be carefully managed in older adults. Very low blood sugar episodes can place stress on the heart and may contribute to serious health problems.
Doctors often adjust diabetes treatment based on age, kidney function, overall health, and other medications.
3. Certain Blood Pressure Medications When Not Properly Managed
Blood pressure medicines are usually prescribed to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. However, incorrect doses or medication combinations can sometimes cause dangerously low blood pressure, dizziness, falls, or other complications.
Regular monitoring helps ensure the medication remains appropriate.
4. Some Heart Rhythm Medications
Medicines used to control abnormal heart rhythms can be lifesaving, but some require careful monitoring because they may affect the electrical activity of the heart or interact with other drugs.
Patients should never stop heart rhythm medication suddenly without medical advice.
5. Certain Hormonal or Other Prescription Therapies
Some prescription treatments may affect blood pressure, cholesterol levels, or blood clot risk in certain patients. The risks and benefits depend greatly on the person’s age, medical history, and reason for taking the medication.
What Older Adults Should Do
- Keep an updated list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- Ask a doctor or pharmacist to review medications regularly.
- Do not stop prescribed medicines suddenly without medical advice.
- Report symptoms such as chest pain, unusual shortness of breath, weakness on one side of the body, or sudden speech problems immediately.
The goal is not to avoid medications that provide important health benefits, but to make sure every medication is still necessary, correctly dosed, and appropriate for the individual patient.
