Some medications can increase cardiovascular risk in certain people, especially older adults or those with existing heart disease. However, that does not mean everyone should stop taking them.
Common examples include:
1. Non-aspirin NSAID pain relievers
Examples:
- Ibuprofen
- Naproxen
- Diclofenac
- Celecoxib
The FDA has strengthened warnings that non-aspirin NSAIDs can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, particularly at higher doses, with longer use, and in people with existing cardiovascular disease.
2. Some decongestants
Examples:
- Pseudoephedrine
- Phenylephrine
These can raise blood pressure and heart rate, which may be problematic for some older adults with hypertension or heart disease.
3. Certain hormone therapies
Some forms of estrogen-containing hormone therapy may increase the risk of stroke or blood clots in specific groups of patients, depending on age and medical history.
4. Some stimulant medications
Medications used for conditions such as ADHD can increase heart rate and blood pressure and may require careful monitoring in older adults.
5. Certain anti-inflammatory or immunomodulating drugs
Depending on the medication and the patient’s health status, some may carry cardiovascular warnings that need to be weighed against their benefits.
Important context
Risk is rarely all-or-nothing. Factors that matter include:
- Age
- Blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Smoking status
- Previous heart attack or stroke
- Dose and duration of medication use
For example, occasional ibuprofen use for a headache is very different from taking high-dose NSAIDs every day for months.
Don’t stop medications on your own
Some medicines that carry risks are still the best treatment for certain conditions. The decision to continue, stop, or switch a medication should be made with a healthcare professional who knows your medical history.
If you tell me which five medications the article or video mentioned, I can explain whether the claims are accurate and what the actual evidence says.
