Hypertension seems to worsen with these common prescription medications

Study findings reveal that adults in the United States diagnosed with hypertension often take other medications that contribute to high blood pressure.  

The findings, which are part of the ongoing National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, found that 18.5% of more than 27,000 Americans with hypertension also take a prescription medication that elevates blood pressure. These include prescription antidepressants and estrogens as well as OTC NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen.

The pattern could explain why so many Americans have uncontrolled hypertension, the researchers said. The study findings will be presented at the American College of Cardiology’s virtual scientific sessions.