Stimulants for ADHD or Weight Loss
Medications that increase alertness or suppress appetite often raise heart rate and BP. This includes drugs like Adderall, Ritalin, and some OTC weight loss supplements that consist of caffeine or ephedra.
Herbal Supplements (yes, really!)
Licorice root, ginseng, ephedra, and even St. John’s Wort can interfere with BP medications or raise pressure on their own. “Natural” doesn’t always mean safe.
What You Should Do:
Examine the label before taking any OTC medication. Look for warn.ings about high bl00d pressure.
Meet your doctor or pharmacist before beginning a new supplement or cold remedy.
Monitor your bl00d pressure regularly—especially after adding anything new to your routine.
Your heart doesn’t get a break just because you’re treating a headache or stuffy nose. Every pill you take affects your body in some way—don’t let one undo all your progress.
If in doubt, ask yourself: “Is this pill helping me… or putting me at risk?”
