High Blood Pressure Over the Counter Meds

According to eMedicineHealth.com, as many as 60 million Americans have high blood pressure, defined as a systolic pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher and a diastolic pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher. It's important for people with high blood pressure to know what over-the-counter medicines can raise blood pressure or affect the drugs prescribed to treat high blood pressure.

Pain Relievers

• A study published in the February 26, 2007 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine showed that men who took ibuprofen, acetaminophen or aspirin had a moderately increased risk of developing high blood pressure. The risk was 38 percent higher for ibuprofen, 34 percent high for acetaminophen and 26 percent higher for aspirin.

Antihistamines

• According to FamilyDoctor.org, antihistamines can interact with several drugs, including those for high blood pressure. Antihistamines can change the body's reaction to blood pressure medication, and may cause side effects.

Nasal Decongestants

• Decongestants work by narrowing blood vessels in the nose. According to the American Heart Association, decongestants can raise blood pressure and even interfere with some blood pressure medications. The association recommends that people with high blood pressure take cold and flu medicines that don't contain decongestants.

Bronchodilators

• These inhaled drugs, which are used to treat asthma and bronchitis, can cause an increase in blood pressure. Most of these drugs are by prescription only, but a few can be purchased over the counter.

Diet Pills

• Diet pills usually contain stimulants, which have been known to raise blood pressure.