Drug-induced hypertension, also called secondary hypertension, is high blood pressure caused by a chemical substance or medicine. Drug-induced hypertension can occur due to several reasons including that the drug may:
- Interfere with medications used to lower blood pressure
- Cause a person to retain higher than average amounts of sodium or the fluid volumes
Here are some types of medications that may cause elevated blood pressure:
1- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most common medications that may affect the ability to control blood pressure due to their widespread use. NSAIDs should be avoided if possible in persons with hypertension and alternative therapies involving analgesics should be considered.
2- Some decongestants. Alternative therapies such as nasal saline, intranasal corticosteroids, and antihistamines should be considered.
3- Appetite suppressants
4- Oral and injectable Corticosteroids. Alternative methods of administration of these drugs such as inhalation or topical use should be considered.
5- Oral Contraceptives should not be used in women with uncontrolled hypertension. Low-dose agents and alternative methods of birth control should be used.
Drug-induced blood pressure elevations represent an important and modifiable cause of secondary hypertension; therefore, it is imperative that pharmacists screen medications that raise blood pressure and guide patients and medical providers to decrease this potential cause of secondary hypertension.
Patients are recommended to always consult their doctors before taking medications and report any medications that they are taking to avoid suffering from serious health problems.