Low blood pressure, also known medically as hypotension, is every bit as serious as high blood pressure when it comes to maintaining a healthy circulatory system. MayoClinic.com notes that it is possible to trigger low blood pressure through the use of specific medications. While these medications may have been prescribed by a doctor, patients should still be watched for signs that the medication may be causing low blood pressure.
Beta-Blockers
According to Patient UK, beta-blockers are commonly used to treat high blood pressure, anxiety and overactive thyroid by reducing the force and rate of the heartbeat in patients. This lowers blood pressure, but MayoClinic.com notes that in some patients, beta-blockers go too far. Patient UK reports that individuals on beta-blockers who are feeling dizzy or lightheaded may be experiencing low blood pressure. Common generic names for popular beta-blockers include acebutolol, betaxolol, celiprolol, metoprolol, nadolol and timolol.
Diuretics
MayoClinic.com notes that diuretics may be a cause of low blood pressure. Also called water pills, the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics reports that diuretics lower blood pressure by removing too much liquid from the body overall. This can be spotted if lightheadedness and dizziness occur commonly when standing up. Low blood pressure is more likely to occur in elderly people taking diuretics, according to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Patients who are taking tricyclic antidepressants may experience low blood pressure, according to MayoClinic.com. RxList notes that tricyclic antidepressants may cause problems with heart rhythms that, coupled with the antidepressant's effects on body chemicals, lower a person's blood pressure. Some of the common tricyclic antidepressants marketed in the United States include Elavil, Anafranil, Sinequan, Tofranil, Surmontil, Amoxapine, Norpramin, Pamelor and Vivactil.
Sildenafil
Sildenafil, marketed as Viagra and Revatio, may cause low blood pressure, according to MayoClinic.com and Drugs.com. Sildenafil works by increasing blood flow to specific areas of the body, which shifts natural blood pressure levels. Users of Sildenafil who experience the symptoms of low blood pressure should stop taking the drug and get medical help.
