Taking ibuprofen with a pair of common high blood pressure medications could lead to permanent kidney damage, according to a new study. Show
Diuretics and renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors are widely prescribed together to treat high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Through a computer-simulated drug trial, researchers found that taking these drugs along with ibuprofen led to a 31 per cent increased risk of sudden kidney damage or failure. "It's not that everyone who happens to take this combination of drugs is going to have problems,” Anita Layton, professor of applied mathematics at the University of Waterloo in Ontario and co-author of the study said in a news release. "But the research shows it's enough of a problem that you should exercise caution." Ibuprofen is typically used to treat pain, fever and inflammation, and is sold under brand names like Advil and Motrin. RAS inhibitors target the hormone system that regulates things like blood pressure, and fluid and electrolyte balance. "Diuretics are a family of drugs that make the body hold less water," Layton said. "Being dehydrated is a major factor in acute kidney injury, and then the RAS inhibitor and ibuprofen hit the kidney with this triple whammy. If you happen to be on these hypertension drugs and need a painkiller, consider acetaminophen instead." Acetaminophen is also known as paracetamol and is sold under brand names like Tylenol. The study was published in the journal Mathematical Biosciences. Updated on September 16, 2022 Ibuprofen can cause your
blood pressure drugs to be less effective, as can other medications. There's a good chance you may be taking one or more of them. Several popular over-the-counter (OTC) remedies do that, including some antacids, as well as a number of prescription drugs. Proper
blood pressure control is important for your cardiovascular health. So it's wise to key an eye on your blood pressure readings if you're taking anything that could cause a problem. That includes vitamins and other supplements that can affect your blood pressure. This article looks at common drug types that can make your
hypertension (high blood pressure) worse. It also discusses what they're typically used to treat and what you can try instead, keeping in mind that you should always discuss medication used with your healthcare provider. 1 frankieleon / Flickr / CC BY 2.0 Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most popular over-the-counter (OTC) medicines in the world. They're used to:
While NSAIDs are typically safe, prolonged use can raise your blood pressure. Long-term use has also been linked to changes in kidney function. The kidneys play a key role in blood pressure regulation. There's research evidence that finds NSAIDs may increase cardiovascular risks, like heart attack and stroke, in some people. OTC NSAIDs include:
Ask your healthcare provider about pain-relief options that may be safer for you. What Is the Safest Anti-Inflammatory?All NSAIDs, except for aspirin, are linked to a higher risk of heart problems. They also present gastrointestinal and renal (kidney) concerns that grow with higher doses and length of time you take them. Aspirin is an option but it increases the risk of bleeding, so it's not for everyone. More research is needed, but some findings suggest Aleve (naproxen) may be safer for the heart. 2 Nasal DecongestantsTom Merton / Getty Images Decongestants slow the production of mucus, which can clog breathing passages. They do this by constricting blood vessels in your nose and sinuses. That opens airways and makes you feel less stuffed up from colds or allergies. Most decongestants contain either:
Those are both stimulants known to increase blood pressure. When used short-term, decongestants are largely safe and effective. But overuse may raise blood pressure and undermine your treatment. Look for non-stimulant decongestants, which may be just as effective for certain nasal conditions. 3 Multi-Symptom Cold and Flu RemediesJupiterimages / Getty Images Dozens of combination pills, syrups, and tablets are marketed for cold and flu symptoms. Each has a different blend of similar ingredients. These include:
Constricted blood vessels and fluid retention are effects of these drugs when taken together. They can cause short-term blood pressure increases and make your treatment less effective. 4 Hormonal Birth ControlPhotoAlto / Getty Images Virtually all hormonal birth control pills, patches, and devices can raise blood pressure. Blood-vessel constriction is a common side effect of these products. They often have a larger effect on women who smoke, are overweight, or are over age 35. Oral contraceptives with lower-dose estrogen may have lesser effects on blood pressure. If you still have a problem while taking these, you may need to consider other forms of birth control. Increased MonitoringNot all women are affected by hormonal birth control. But if you have hypertension, your healthcare provider will likely want to monitor you closely. Ideally, you should get checked every six to 12 months. 5 Antidepressant DrugsJonathan Nourok / Getty Images Antidepressants change the activity of neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) tied to mood. They include:
These drugs increase your levels of adrenaline and other stimulating hormones. That can increase blood pressure. Dopamine is even used in emergencies to raise critically low blood pressure. Several antidepressant classes are linked to increased blood pressure, such as:
Ups and Downs of MAOIs*MAOIs alone can lower your blood pressure. But they can lead to dangerously high blood pressure when combined with:
SummaryDrugs that increase blood pressure either constrict blood vessels, increase fluid retention, or raise hormone levels. Use care with NSAIDs, decongestants, combination cold and flu medicines, hormonal birth control, and antidepressants. A Word From Verywell If you take any of these OTC drugs, talk to your healthcare provider about your risk of
hypertension. You may want to check your blood pressure at home until you know how the medication affects you. You may need to switch drugs, lower your dosage, or up the dosage of an anti-hypertensive drug. Frequently Asked Questions
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
By
Craig O. Weber, MD Thanks for your feedback! Does ibuprofen interact with blood pressure medication?Ibuprofen has been known to negatively impact other blood pressure medications, particularly ace inhibitors such as Vasotec or Lotensin, or beta-blockers like Lopressor. The combination of ibuprofen with these drugs has been known to cause heartburn, upset stomach and even ulcers.
What anti inflammatory can I take with high blood pressure?In the journals
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is often the pain reliever of choice for people with high blood pressure (hypertension) because most other options are types of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve), which can raise blood pressure.
|