A Cardiologist Warns: 5 Types of Medications That May Increase Heart Attack or Stroke Risk in Some Older Adults
The headline is overly broad. No medication should be considered dangerous for everyone. Some drugs can increase cardiovascular risk in certain people, while the same drugs may be appropriate and beneficial for others. Never stop a prescribed medication without discussing it with your healthcare professional.
1. NSAID pain relievers
Examples:
- Ibuprofen
- Diclofenac
- High-dose naproxen
Why caution is needed:
- Can raise blood pressure
- May increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, particularly with long-term or high-dose use
- Can also affect kidney function
2. Oral decongestants
Examples:
- Pseudoephedrine
- Phenylephrine
Why caution is needed:
- Can increase blood pressure and heart rate
- May not be suitable for people with heart disease or uncontrolled hypertension
3. Some hormone therapies
Certain estrogen-containing hormone treatments may increase the risk of:
- Blood clots
- Stroke
- Heart attack in some people, depending on age, medical history, and the type and timing of therapy
4. Some stimulant medications
Medicines used for conditions such as ADHD or excessive daytime sleepiness can increase heart rate and blood pressure. They require careful monitoring in people with cardiovascular disease.
5. Certain cancer treatments
Some chemotherapy drugs and targeted cancer therapies can affect the heart or blood vessels, so regular monitoring is often recommended during treatment.
Medicines that are often misunderstood
Some online lists wrongly include medications that actually reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke for many people, such as:
- Blood pressure medicines
- Statins
- Antiplatelet medications
- Anticoagulants
These medicines have potential side effects, but when prescribed appropriately, they often provide substantial cardiovascular protection.
Tips for older adults
- Take medications exactly as prescribed.
- Tell your healthcare professional about all over-the-counter medicines and supplements you use.
- Have your blood pressure, kidney function, and other recommended tests checked regularly.
- Ask before starting any new medication, even if it doesn’t require a prescription.
Seek medical care immediately if you have:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side
- Trouble speaking
- Sudden vision changes
- Severe shortness of breath
If you’re concerned about a specific medication, tell me its name and dose, and I can explain its known cardiovascular risks and benefits in more detail.
