Ibuprofen, decongestants, and antacids: Everyday medicines people with high blood pressure should avoid

If you have high blood pressure, it's crucial to understand which everyday medicines and supplements might interfere with your blood pressure control. Certain common drugs and health products can either raise your blood pressure or lessen the effectiveness of your prescribed treatment.

Dr. Sanjeev Chaudhary, a renowned cardiologist, warns against painkillers like ibuprofen, diclofenac, and naproxen when taken regularly. These medications can lead to fluid retention, ultimately elevating blood pressure levels. People with hypertension should refrain from using these painkillers unless specifically advised otherwise by a medical professional.

Some cold and flu remedies, particularly those containing decongestants with pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, can also increase blood pressure and heart rate. Additionally, certain steroids, hormonal medications, and a few psychiatric drugs may impact blood pressure as well. Even seemingly harmless over-the-counter products can affect your blood pressure if used excessively.

Antacids containing sodium, for instance, can contribute to sodium intake, potentially raising blood pressure. Herbal supplements and stimulant-based products aren't inherently safe for individuals with high blood pressure either. Dr. Sanjeev emphasizes that just because a product is advertised as natural doesn't mean it's automatically safe.

Other factors to be cautious of include supplements containing liquorice (mulethi), ginseng, or ephedra, as well as some energy or weight-loss products. High doses of caffeine and stimulant-containing pre-workout supplements can also cause temporary increases in blood pressure.

When considering new medicines, supplements, herbal preparations, or over-the-counter products, Dr. Sanjeev advises checking with your doctor or pharmacist first. Never discontinue your prescribed blood pressure medication without medical guidance. Effective blood pressure control requires not only taking the right medication but also avoiding substances that could quietly undermine your efforts.