Some prescribed and over-the-counter drugs as well as herbal supplements can raise blood pressure. Individuals with hypertension should only use such drugs after consultation with a physician. The American Heart Association warns that some OTC drugs are high in sodium, the intake of which can cause blood pressure to rise.
Acetaminophen
According to Mayoclinic.com, acetaminophen can raise the blood pressure of women who take 500 mg or more per day, although the reasons for this elevated pressure are unknown. This does not mean they will develop chronic hypertension. Women already diagnosed with high blood pressure should consult a doctor before taking more than 500 mg of acetaminophen for pain.
Antidepressants
Some antidepressants can elevate blood pressure, according to Mayoclinic.com, although the reasons for the increase are unknown. This effect is found in such antidepressants as venlafaxine, bupropion, desipramine and phenelzine. There are many other antidepressants available for individuals who need an antidepressant but who wish to avoid this complication.
Immunosuppressants
Some individuals take immunosuppressants, such as individuals who have had an organ transplant and need immunosuppressives to avoid organ rejection. Individuals who take these drugs should have their blood pressure taken regularly and if hypertension develops, they may need to take other drugs. Immununosuppressants most likely to cause high blood pressure are tacrolimus, methylprednisolone and cyclosporine.
Herbal Supplements
According to MayoClinic.com, some herbal supplements can raise blood pressure, such as St. John's wort, licorice and ginseng. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine--NCCAM--yohimbe and bitter orange may elevate blood pressure. For example, the NCCAM says there have been reports of heart attack, stroke and fainting in healthy people who took bitter orange supplements alone or with caffeine. It should never be assumed that because drugs are natural, they are invariably safe. A doctor should be consulted before beginning any herbal regimen.
Cold and Flu Remedies
According to the American Heart Association, many over-the-counter medicines for colds and flu contain ingredients that can raise blood pressure. These medications can be dangerous for people with hypertension. The American Heart Association recommends reading the labels on all drugs. People with high blood pressure should especially watch out for medications that include ephedrine, levmetamfetamine, naphazoline and oxymetazoline, phenylpropanolamine, pseudoephedrine, synephrine and tetrahydrozoline.
Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs
Some nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs--NSAIDs--can cause water retention which can lead to kidney problems and consequently elevate blood pressure. According to Mayoclinic.com, NSAIDs that may cause this problem include ibuprofen,naproxen and naproxen sodium.
Birth Control Pills
Women taking birth control pills may experience increased blood pressure, according to Mayoclinic.com. They recommend women with hypertension use a non-hormonal form of contraception.
