That headline is sensationalized. A claim that “5 medications increase the risk of heart attack and stroke in older people” is too broad without naming the drugs, the doses, and the circumstances.
Some medications can increase cardiovascular risk in certain people, especially older adults, but the balance of risks and benefits depends on the individual’s medical history. Examples include:
- Some NSAID pain relievers (such as ibuprofen and diclofenac), particularly at higher doses or with long-term use, can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke in some people.
- Certain decongestants (such as pseudoephedrine) can raise blood pressure and heart rate, which may not be appropriate for people with heart disease or uncontrolled hypertension.
- Some hormone therapies may affect the risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart disease depending on the formulation and the person using them.
- Some medications that prolong the QT interval can increase the risk of dangerous heart rhythm problems in susceptible individuals, though this is different from causing a heart attack.
However:
- Do not stop taking a prescribed medication because of a social media post. Suddenly stopping some medicines can be dangerous and may actually increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.
- If you’re concerned about a medication, discuss it with the healthcare professional who prescribed it. They can help determine whether the benefits outweigh the risks in your situation.
If you can share the five medications mentioned in the post (or a screenshot), I can explain what the evidence says about each one and whether the claims are accurate.
