Several widely used over the counter medications can potentially raise blood pressure. Non steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, for example Ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®), Naproxen, Vioxx®, Celebrex®, can all be associated with elevations in blood pressure, particularly in individuals who already have hypertension. In some cases the rise in blood pressure can be significant - as high as 20 mm Hg. This usually occurs after several days of use, and the blood pressure will go down several days after the medications are stopped. Salt restriction may be helpful in minimizing the rise in blood pressure associated with anti-inflammatory agents. If you have high blood pressure and are taking these medications it is a good idea to monitor your blood pressure at least once a week.
The other class of commonly used over the counter medications that may raise blood pressure are decongestants. Most decongestants contain pseudoephedrine, which is branded Sudafed when used alone. It is important to read the labels of all cold medications since many cold remedies contain pseudoephedrine however this might not be apparent from the name of the medication. Pseudoephedrine also may cause an increase in heart rate (pulse), and a feeling of anxiety. Antihistamines (e.g. Benadryl®) do not raise blood pressure unless they are combined with a decongestant. Similarly, cough medications will only raise blood pressure if they are combined with a decongestant. Aspirin and Tylenol® do not raise blood pressure.
Motrin® and Tylenol® are registered trademarks of McNeil-PPC.
Advil® is a registered trademark of Wyeth Consumer Healthcare.
Vioxx® is a registered trademark of Merck
Celebrex® is a registered trademark of Pharmacia
Benadryl® is a registered trademark of Pfizer
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