A cardiologist warns: these 5 medications increase the risk of heart attack and stroke in older people

than taken without assessment of cardiovascular and clotting risks.

4. Certain Stimulant Medications

Stimulant medicines can increase heart rate and blood pressure.

Some are prescribed for conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, while others may appear in weight-loss products or unregulated supplements.

 

Possible cardiovascular effects can include:

Faster heartbeat
Higher blood pressure
Palpitations
Increased cardiac workload

For most appropriately screened patients, prescribed stimulants can be used safely. But older adults or people with established cardiovascular disease may require closer monitoring.

Unregulated “energy” or weight-loss products deserve particular caution because they