The headline “A cardiologist warns: these 5 medications increase the risk of heart attack and stroke in older people” is a common health-alert style headline, but it can be misleading. Medications are rarely simply “good” or “bad”—the risk depends on the specific drug, dose, medical condition, and whether it is being used appropriately. People should not stop prescribed medicines based only on a headline.
Some types of medications that may require extra caution in older adults include:
- Certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Examples include ibuprofen and naproxen.
- Long-term or high-dose use may increase cardiovascular risk in some people, especially those with heart disease or high blood pressure.
- Some blood-thinning medications when not properly managed
- These medicines can reduce the risk of stroke in certain conditions (such as atrial fibrillation), but incorrect dosing or interactions can increase bleeding risk.
- Some diabetes medications in certain situations
- Medication choices depend on kidney function, heart health, and other factors.
- Certain decongestants
- Ingredients such as pseudoephedrine can raise blood pressure and heart rate in some people.
- Some hormone-related medications or therapies
- Certain treatments may affect cardiovascular risk depending on the person’s age, health history, and timing.
Many medications actually lower the risk of heart attack and stroke when correctly prescribed, such as cholesterol-lowering drugs and blood pressure medicines.
If you have the list of the “five medications” from the article, share it here and I can help check which claims are accurate and which are exaggerated.
