Several commonly used medicines can affect cardiovascular risk, particularly in older adults. But it would be misleading to say that five specific pills are universally dangerous—the risk depends on the drug, dose, duration, medical conditions, and other medicines being taken. Older adults are also more susceptible to medication interactions because kidney and liver function can change with age. U.S. Food and Drug Administration
5 medication groups to review carefully
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NSAID painkillers
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Examples include ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, and celecoxib.
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These medicines can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, and the cardiovascular risk can appear relatively early in treatment and increase with higher doses or longer use. U.S. Food and Drug Administration+1
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They can also cause stomach bleeding and kidney problems.
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Aspirin when taken without medical guidance
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Aspirin can be appropriate for people who have already had certain heart attacks or strokes, but it isn’t automatically beneficial for every older adult.
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It can cause serious gastrointestinal or brain bleeding, so daily use for prevention should be individualized with a healthcare professional. U.S. Food and Drug Administration+1
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Decongestants containing pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine
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These can raise blood pressure and heart rate in some people.
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Older adults with hypertension, arrhythmias, or cardiovascular disease should ask a clinician or pharmacist before using them.
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Stimulant-containing medicines
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Some prescription stimulants and certain combination products can increase heart rate and blood pressure.
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Their risks depend heavily on the individual’s cardiovascular history and the particular medicine.
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Certain prescription medicines that can disturb heart rhythm
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Some drugs can prolong the QT interval, increasing the risk of a potentially dangerous abnormal rhythm in susceptible people.
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Risk is higher with certain combinations of medications and with electrolyte abnormalities or kidney disease.
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One important warning
Don’t abruptly stop a prescribed medication because you read that it can affect the heart. Some medicines—including cardiovascular drugs—can cause problems if stopped suddenly. Instead, have a doctor or pharmacist review your complete medication list, including OTC painkillers, cold medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. U.S. Food and Drug Administration
If you develop chest pressure/pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, sudden weakness or numbness on one side, or difficulty speaking, seek emergency medical care.
