Whether you have cardiovascular problems or not, find out which medications can be dangerous to your heart.
Some medications pose a risk to your heart. It’s not always necessary to stop treatment, but it’s important to regularly monitor your heart if you’re taking them. This applies to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but also to other medications commonly prescribed for cardiovascular conditions, which may cause side effects. These are listed in the package inserts. If you experience heart problems (palpitations, arrhythmia, etc.) after taking a particular medication, contact your doctor immediately.
Anti-inflammatory drugs: what effect do they have on the heart?
A 2005 British study found that some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), particularly those containing ibuprofen and diclofenac, increase the risk of heart attack. Long-term use of NSAIDs can trigger other conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart failure. Therefore, it’s important to limit the use of anti-inflammatory drugs to situations where they are truly necessary. If you have even minor heart problems, consult your doctor before taking them. If you are currently taking medications and are concerned about heart complications, do not stop taking them without consulting your doctor.
What other medications are dangerous for the heart?
Some medications prescribed for cardiovascular disease can have adverse effects on the heart. This includes Multaq, which treats arrhythmia, but may increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. Other medications prescribed to treat spasms (Hexaquine® or potassium-based medications such as Diffu K®, Kaléorid®, Potassium Gluconate®, and Potassium Richard®) can cause arrhythmia, low blood pressure, or—worse—a heart attack. The same applies to some medications for impotence (Viagra®, Levitra®, Cialis®) and low libido (Intrinsa®). Therefore, avoid self-medication and consult a doctor immediately if you notice any side effects. If you are taking any of these medications, do not worry, and above all, do not discontinue treatment. However, you can discuss your concerns with your doctor so that they can prescribe alternative treatment, if possible.
