Common Medications May Worsen High Blood Pressure, Warns New Study

A recent study has unveiled alarming findings regarding the use of common medications among adults with high blood pressure. According to research presented at the American College of Cardiology's 70th Annual Scientific Session, as many as one in five adults with hypertension are inadvertently taking medications that may exacerbate their condition. This revelation serves as a crucial reminder for patients to actively review their medications, particularly those available over-the-counter. Notably, approximately nine percent of patients with high blood pressure are using antidepressants, while seven percent are on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen. Additionally, two percent are taking oral steroids for various conditions. The study found that these medications can raise blood pressure, posing further risks for individuals already dealing with hypertension. Alarmingly, about one-third of adults in the UK suffer from high blood pressure, yet a staggering fifty percent remain undiagnosed or untreated. It was noted that among 27,000 participants surveyed, 19 percent reported the use of one or more blood pressure-raising medications, with women being more likely to fall into this category at 24 percent compared to 14 percent of men. Cardiologist Dr. John Vitarello emphasized the importance of being aware of 'polypharmacy,' especially among older adults who often face the highest burden of hypertension. He suggested that in some cases, rather than simply adding more medications to lower blood pressure, healthcare providers should consider the practice of deprescribing, which involves reducing or substituting medications that may be contributing to elevated blood pressure. This approach could not only improve patient outcomes but also mitigate the risks associated with high blood pressure, which is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease and stroke. In a related study from Penn Dental Medicine, researchers examined the impact of widely prescribed hypertension drugs on a potentially novel enzyme therapy known as oral ACE2. Their findings indicated that some common antihypertensive medications could inhibit the effectiveness of this therapy, with unexpected complications arising during tests on dogs suffering from high blood pressure. The enzyme therapy, which utilizes a lettuce-based delivery system, was found to be blocked by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and affected by angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). The researchers noted that while one ACEI, lisinopril, allowed for the enzyme to function correctly, the overall potential of this therapy remains under investigation. This new body of research raises significant concerns about current hypertension treatment protocols and calls for a reassessment of how medications are prescribed. It highlights the need for healthcare professionals and patients alike to engage in thorough discussions regarding the medications being used, especially given the potential long-term implications on cardiovascular health. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers to ensure that their medication regimens are both safe and effective, especially in the context of existing health conditions like high blood pressure. Overall, this study signals an important shift toward personalized medicine in the treatment of hypertension, emphasizing the necessity for tailored approaches that prioritize patient safety and health outcomes.