Blood pressure is the force that the blood exerts on the walls of the arteries as it flows through them.

Normally, blood pressure should be at a healthy level to maintain proper blood flow and supply of oxygen and other nutrients to the body’s organs. However, there are several drugs that can raise blood pressure, leading to a range of health problems.

1. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are a class of drugs used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. They work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are chemical messengers that promote inflammation and pain.

However, some NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can constrict blood vessels and raise blood pressure, especially if taken in large doses or over a prolonged period of time. People with hypertension should be cautious when taking these drugs, and should consult a healthcare provider before starting any new medication.

2. Decongestants

Decongestants are commonly used to relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure caused by colds, allergies, and other respiratory infections. They work by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages and reducing swelling.

However, this may also lead to a rise in blood pressure. Examples of decongestants include pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine. People with hypertension should avoid taking these drugs, or should take them under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

3. Birth Control Pills

Oral contraceptives, or birth control pills, contain synthetic hormones that prevent pregnancy by suppressing ovulation.

However, these hormones can also raise blood pressure in some women, especially those who are overweight, smoke, or have a family history of hypertension. Women who take birth control pills should have their blood pressure checked regularly, and should inform their healthcare provider if they experience any symptoms of high blood pressure, such as headaches, dizziness, or vision problems.

4. Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are a class of drugs that are used to treat a variety of conditions, such as inflammation, asthma, and autoimmune disorders. They work by reducing the activity of the immune system and suppressing inflammation.

However, corticosteroids can also cause a rise in blood pressure, especially when taken in high doses or over a prolonged period of time. People who take these drugs should have their blood pressure checked regularly and should consult their healthcare provider if they experience any symptoms of high blood pressure.

5. Nonselective Beta Blockers

Beta blockers are drugs that block the effects of adrenaline and other stress hormones on the heart and blood vessels. They are commonly used to treat high blood pressure, angina, and arrhythmias.

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However, nonselective beta blockers, such as propranolol and nadolol, can also constrict blood vessels and raise blood pressure, especially in people with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). People who take these drugs should have their blood pressure checked regularly and should consult their healthcare provider if they experience any symptoms of high blood pressure.

6. Stimulants

Stimulants are drugs that increase alertness, attention, and energy. They are often used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity.

However, stimulants can also raise blood pressure by increasing heart rate and constricting blood vessels. Examples of stimulants include methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine, and phentermine. People with hypertension should avoid taking these drugs, or should take them under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

7. Immunosuppressants

Immunosuppressants are drugs that suppress the activity of the immune system, thereby reducing inflammation and preventing rejection of transplanted organs.

However, some immunosuppressants, such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus, can raise blood pressure by constricting blood vessels and interfering with the balance of salt and water in the body. People who take these drugs should have their blood pressure checked regularly and should consult their healthcare provider if they experience any symptoms of high blood pressure.

8. Antidepressants

Antidepressants are drugs that are used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. They work by altering the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.

However, some antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), can raise blood pressure by interfering with the function of the sympathetic nervous system, which regulates heart rate and blood pressure. People who take these drugs should have their blood pressure checked regularly and should consult their healthcare provider if they experience any symptoms of high blood pressure.

9. Steroids

Steroids are a class of drugs that are used to treat a variety of conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, allergic reactions, and certain types of cancer. They work by suppressing inflammation and the activity of the immune system.

However, some steroids, such as prednisone and hydrocortisone, can raise blood pressure by constricting blood vessels and retaining salt and water in the body. People who take these drugs should have their blood pressure checked regularly and should consult their healthcare provider if they experience any symptoms of high blood pressure.

10. Ephedra

Ephedra is a natural stimulant that is found in certain weight-loss supplements and athletic performance enhancers. It works by increasing heart rate and constricting blood vessels.

However, ephedra can also raise blood pressure, and has been linked to heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events. The FDA has banned the sale of dietary supplements containing ephedra, but it is still available online and in some health food stores. People with hypertension should avoid taking ephedra, or any dietary supplements or drugs that contain it.