Common Medications Linked to Heart Problems,cardiologist Warns
BUENOS AIRES,ARGENTINA - Everyday medications,frequently used for pain and digestive issues,can substantially increase the risk of heart problems,a leading cardiologist warns. Dr. tomás Rojas, speaking recently, highlighted specific drugs – including NSAIDs, certain antibiotics, and proton pump inhibitors – and urged patients to be more informed about potential cardiovascular side effects.
The increasing prevalence of chronic conditions and reliance on over-the-counter remedies means more people are perhaps exposed to these risks, Rojas explained. “The heart is also taken care of what we put in the body… even in the form of a pill,” he stated in a recent publication, emphasizing the need for conscious medication choices and open communication with healthcare providers.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), commonly used to treat pain and inflammation, can raise blood pressure, increase the risk of heart failure, and damage the vascular endothelium. Rojas recommends paracetamol for mild to moderate pain, alongside physiotherapy or natural supplements for chronic pain management as safer alternatives.
Certain antibiotics, such as clarithromycin or azithromycin, can alter heart rate and prolong the QT interval, potentially leading to risky arrhythmias. Rojas stresses these should only be used when correctly indicated and under strict medical supervision, discouraging self-medication.
prolonged use of omeprazole and other proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) – frequently prescribed for gastric problems – can reduce the absorption of magnesium and vitamin B12, elevating cardiovascular risk. rojas advises reducing continuous use, improving diet, and opting for less aggressive antacids for limited periods when necessary.
