That headline is misleading as written. It implies that five medications are broadly dangerous for all older adults, but no medication should be judged by a headline alone. Many drugs have risks and benefits, and whether they are appropriate depends on the person’s health and why they’re taking them.
There are, however, some medication classes that can increase cardiovascular risk in certain situations or in some people, including older adults:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen or diclofenac): Some NSAIDs can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, especially with higher doses or long-term use. They can also raise blood pressure.
- COX-2 inhibitors: These prescription pain relievers may increase cardiovascular risk in some patients.
- Certain decongestants containing pseudoephedrine can raise blood pressure and heart rate, which may be a concern for people with heart disease.
- Some hormone therapies may affect the risk of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke depending on the person’s age, health, and the type of therapy.
- Some medications can interact with others or worsen existing heart conditions, so regular medication reviews are important.
Important context
- Do not stop a prescribed medication because of a social media post. Suddenly stopping some medicines can be more dangerous than continuing them.
- If you’re concerned about a medication, discuss it with your doctor or pharmacist. They can weigh the benefits and risks for your specific situation.
Bottom line
A claim like “these 5 medications increase the risk of heart attack and stroke in older people” is too broad to be reliable. Some medications do carry cardiovascular risks, but those risks vary by drug, dose, duration, and the individual’s medical history. Decisions about medications should be based on medical evidence and personalized advice, not viral headlines.
