When you take a medication for one health issue, it shouldn’t make another one worse—but sometimes, it does. High blood pressure from drugs, a condition where certain medications trigger elevated blood pressure levels. Also known as drug-induced hypertension, it’s not rare, and it often goes unnoticed until it’s serious. You might be taking a drug for depression, inflammation, or even allergies, and not realize it’s quietly pushing your blood pressure up. This isn’t about street drugs or misuse. It’s about common prescriptions and over-the-counter pills that affect your body in ways you didn’t expect.
Corticosteroids, like prednisone, used to reduce inflammation in asthma, arthritis, or autoimmune conditions are one of the biggest culprits. They don’t just raise blood sugar—they also cause your body to hold onto salt and water, which increases pressure in your arteries. MAOIs, a class of antidepressants used for treatment-resistant depression, are another hidden risk. These drugs block enzymes that break down tyramine, a compound found in aged cheeses, soy sauce, and even draft beer. When tyramine builds up, it can cause a sudden, dangerous spike in blood pressure called a hypertensive crisis. It’s not just about cheese. It’s about what you eat, what you take, and how they interact.
Other drugs like NSAIDs, decongestants, birth control pills, and even some herbal supplements can nudge your blood pressure higher over time. The problem? Most people don’t check their numbers regularly unless they’re already diagnosed with hypertension. By the time symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or shortness of breath show up, the damage might already be done. The good news? You don’t have to guess. If you’re on any long-term medication, ask your doctor: could this be raising my blood pressure? A simple blood pressure check during a routine visit can catch it early.
What you’ll find below is a collection of real, practical guides that dig into exactly how these drugs work, who’s most at risk, and what you can do about it. From how steroids mess with your body’s fluid balance to why fermented foods can trigger a crisis when paired with certain antidepressants, these posts give you the facts without the fluff. No theory. No guesswork. Just clear, actionable info from people who’ve seen this happen—and know how to stop it.
Certain medications like NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and decongestants can raise blood pressure - often without warning. Learn how to spot it, monitor it, and manage it safely before it causes serious harm.
Callum Laird | Nov, 6 2025 Read More