Last Updated on February 5, 2020
Please note that despite being an NSAID, aspirin does not increase the risk of heart complications. If anything, an aspiring can help you prevent a heart attack by dissolving the clot that is blocking the blood supply to your heart.
OTC drugs high on sodium: similarly, OTC medication that contains a high amount of sodium (salt) will make your body retain water, thus increasing, even more, your blood pressure.
If you suffer from hypertension, make sure to look for this ingredient in the drug’s label or talk to your doctor if you are not sure about the safety of a specific medicine. Remember, for people with that medical condition it is recommended not to exceed the 1,500 mg mark of salt intake per day.
Decongestants: you know when you have a cold and you are constantly blowing your nose and can barely breathe through it? That is when you take a decongestant. After a few minutes, the drug narrows your nose’s blood vessels and ta-da, your nose is working fine again (at least for the time being).
However, decongestants can also narrow other blood vessels in your body which is very problematic if your blood pressure is already high. Some antihistamines can also produce a similar effect.
As the FDA puts it: “They [over-the-counter medicine] are safe and effective when you follow the directions on the label and as directed by your health care professional”.
This is a clear warning issued by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration, the federal entity responsible for protecting and promoting public health – which specifically includes controlling the safety of over-the-counter drugs. They know well what they are talking about. So… Make sure to follow the directions on the label!
