.svg)
If you suffer from hypertension, you’re not alone: One in three adults in the United States has high blood pressure, a health concern that increases your risk of heart disease and stroke.
If your doctor diagnoses you with high blood pressure, you’ll need to make several changes to your daily routine – including watching what you eat, modifying your exercise routine and taking any medications as prescribed. But you’ll also need to be cautious with any over-the-counter medications you take. While most OTCs are safe to take, some may increase blood pressure or cause adverse reactions when paired with prescribed blood pressure medications.
This article was written by
Heart Health and OTC Medicine
Heart Health and OTC Medicine
Heart Health and OTC Medicine
Jump to a section:
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Jump to a section:
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
If you suffer from hypertension, you’re not alone: One in three adults in the United States has high blood pressure, a health concern that increases your risk of heart disease and stroke.
If your doctor diagnoses you with high blood pressure, you’ll need to make several changes to your daily routine – including watching what you eat, modifying your exercise routine and taking any medications as prescribed. But you’ll also need to be cautious with any over-the-counter medications you take. While most OTCs are safe to take, some may increase blood pressure or cause adverse reactions when paired with prescribed blood pressure medications.
Hypertension
Remember, it’s always important to carefully read the labels on OTC medication – and this becomes even more important when you have hypertension. If your blood pressure is over 120/80 mm Hg or if you are taking prescription medication for your blood pressure, talk to your doctor before taking any OTC medicines or supplements.
People with controlled hypertension should take care when using any of the following types of OTC medications:
- NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen sodium can decrease kidney function and make the body retain fluid, which increases blood pressure.
- Decongestants. These common cold medications work by narrowing the blood vessels in your nose and sinuses, which helps relieve your symptoms by tamping down swelling and draining excess fluid. But decongestants may contribute to higher blood pressure by narrowing blood vessels elsewhere in your body. In addition, if your allergy or cold medicines contain pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, talk to your doctor; both of those ingredients can interfere with your prescribed blood pressure medications.
- Some OTC medications have a high sodium content, which increases blood pressure by making your body retain water. Look at the ingredients label for words like “sodium” or “soda,” and try to pick alternatives with a lower salt content. People with hypertension should get less than 1,500 mg of salt per day – and certain OTC medicines might contain more than your daily allowance.
You may have heard that taking an aspirin a day can help keep the doctor away by preventing heart attack or stroke. However, many people are surprised to learn that directions for taking aspirin preventatively are on the OTC medicine label. Before starting to take aspirin daily, be sure to talk to your doctor about the potential benefits and risks of taking aspirin daily and whether it should be part of your heart-health treatment plan.
Important Update: Acetaminophen
There’s been a lot of talk recently about misleading claims that taking acetaminophen during pregnancy can cause autism. We’ve pulled together some FAQs and answers to help families.
Learn more and get the facts about acetaminophenA NOTE ABOUT DYE-FREE PRODUCTS: Dye-free medications and supplements are a great option for individuals who prefer or require products without dyes, such as those with allergies, sensitivities, or personal preferences. Importantly, both dye-containing and dye-free options are held to the same rigorous safety and quality standards. If you’re unsure which is right for you or your family, talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider. They can help you choose the option that best suits your needs.
References:
- http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/09/30/AR2005093001998.html
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR602285/DSECTION=precautions-
- http://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/multivitamin.html
- http://www.naturemade.com/resource-center/articles-and-videos/immune-health/timing-your-vitamins
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/912.html
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminA-HealthProfessional/
- http://www.prevention.com/food/healthy-eating-tips/your-breakfast-giving-you-cancer
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/
- http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/yf/foods/fn1607.pdf
- http://www.fda.gov/Food/DietarySupplements/UsingDietarySupplements/ucm110567.htm
Safe Use Tips & Takeaways
Heart Health Takeaways
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water, soil, and some foods. It strengthens your enamel, repairs early signs of damage, and makes teeth more resistant to acids from bacteria and sugar.
Is fluoride toothpaste still the most effective option, or are fluoride-free formulas just as good?
Fluoride is still the gold standard for cavity protection. Fluoride-free options can clean your teeth, but they don’t offer the same enamel-strengthening power.
Is fluoride safe for daily use?
Yes. When used as directed, fluoride is safe and effective. It’s been trusted and recommended by major health organizations for over 70 years.
How does fluoride actually protect teeth?
It strengthens enamel, repairs early signs of decay, and makes teeth more resistant to acids from bacteria and sugary foods.
Are there any risks to using fluoride long-term?
The main risk—especially for young kids—is swallowing too much, which can lead to mild fluorosis. Using the right amount prevents this. For parents, supervise brushing to ensure kids spit out the toothpaste and don't swallow it.
At what age should kids start using fluoride toothpaste?
As soon as the first tooth appears!
* Under 3 years: a tiny rice-sized smear
* Ages 3–6+: a pea-size amount
Supervise brushing so they don’t swallow it.
* Under 3 years: a tiny rice-sized smear
* Ages 3–6+: a pea-size amount
Supervise brushing so they don’t swallow it.
Is fluoride still safe and recommended for kids with all the claims online?
Yes. A lot of online claims can be confusing, but decades of research show fluoride is safe and strongly recommended for cavity prevention when used properly.
How much fluoride should my child get from toothpaste?
Use age-appropriate amounts and brush twice a day. If your water isn’t fluoridated, ask your dentist about additional options.
How do I know which kids’ toothpaste claims are real and not just marketing?
Check for the ADA Seal of Acceptance and choose brands your dentist recommends.
Do fluoride-free or “natural” toothpastes protect kids from cavities?
They can help clean teeth, but they don’t provide the same cavity protection as fluoride toothpastes.
Are fluoride-free toothpastes just as effective for adults?
Not for cavity prevention. Fluoride-free toothpastes can help with cleaning and freshening breath, but they do not protect against cavities the way fluoride does. For adults, or anyone who is prone to cavities, fluoride toothpaste remains the most effective option for preventing tooth decay.
Do fluoride alternatives like nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp) make a difference?
Yes—nHAp can help with sensitivity and early enamel repair. But it hasn’t matched fluoride’s cavity-prevention strength in studies.
How do I compare fluoride vs. fluoride-free options if I have sensitivity or enamel wear?
Fluoride is best for strengthening enamel. nHAp may help with sensitivity. Some people benefit from using both in a balanced routine.
Are whitening toothpastes safe to use with fluoride or fluoride-free products?
Most are safe but can be abrasive. Choose gentle formulas and avoid using them every single day—especially for kids.
What should I look for when choosing an OTC toothpaste?
Pick products with proven active ingredients (like fluoride), check for the ADA Seal, and avoid unnecessary additives or sweeteners.
Does fluoride affect hormones or the brain?
No credible scientific evidence shows fluoride at levels used in toothpaste or fluoridated water disrupts hormones or causes neurodevelopmental harm.
What should I do if my community stops adding fluoride to the water?
Use fluoridated toothpaste, consider fluoride rinses, and talk to a dentist about fluoride supplements for kids.
Do fluoride supplements have side effects?
They’re safe when used under dental guidance and typically recommended for children in areas without fluoridated water.
What’s the best way to make sure I’m getting enough fluoride?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, drink fluoridated tap water if available, and ask your dentist for personalized advice if you’re cavity-prone.