That headline is misleading without important context.
It likely refers to research on high-dose nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure and angina. In one large observational study, high-dose nifedipine (60 mg/day or more) was associated with a higher risk of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest compared with amlodipine or with not using those drugs. Low-dose nifedipine and amlodipine did not show this increased risk. (PubMed)
A few important points:
- The study found an association, not proof that the drug caused cardiac arrest.
- The increased risk was seen with high-dose nifedipine, not all blood pressure medications.
- Blood pressure medicines, as a group, generally reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular complications when used appropriately. (PubMed)
If you’re taking nifedipine, amlodipine, or another blood pressure medicine:
- Do not stop it on your own. Suddenly stopping some blood pressure medications can be dangerous.
- If you’re concerned, discuss it with your healthcare provider. They can review whether your medication, dose, and overall cardiovascular risk make sense for you.
If you tell me which blood pressure medication you’re taking (for example, amlodipine, nifedipine, lisinopril, losartan, metoprolol, etc.), I can explain what is known about its benefits and risks.
