Many over-the-counter medications and supplements can affect blood pressure. In fact, even eating black licorice can lead to high blood pressure and also cause dangerously low levels of potassium in the body.. This can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, according to experts at the Cleveland Clinic, according to Pannochka, an online publication for girls and women aged 14 to 35.. net Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have also reported some medications and supplements that may also interfere with medications designed to lower your blood pressure..

Painkiller. Some painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Tylenol and Alev, can make you retain water, creating kidney problems and raising your blood pressure.. Ask your doctor which pain medicine is best for you.

Antidepressants. These drugs can cause high blood pressure by affecting several chemicals in your brain.. Examples include Prozac and Effexor, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Caffeine. About 200-300mg of caffeine can cause a temporary spike in blood pressure, Mayo Clinic says. But many experts disagree that drinking coffee has a long-term effect on hypertension.. Researchers at Harvard Medical School say drinking coffee may not increase blood pressure in habitual drinkers, but people who aren't used to drinking coffee may see a temporary increase in their blood pressure after drinking regular or decaf..

Decongestants. These drugs narrow your blood vessels, making it difficult for you to get blood flow, raising your blood pressure.. Decongestants can also make some blood pressure medications less effective.. Two well-known drugs - Sudafed and Neosynephrine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to recommend a decongestant that does not affect blood pressure.

Herbal supplements can also cause high blood pressure, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Arnica, commonly used topically to reduce pain, is toxic to the heart and can raise blood pressure if taken orally. Ginseng is believed to increase sexual performance, but also causes hypertension. Ephedra used for weight loss can cause dangerous and even life-threatening increases in heart rate and blood pressure.

If you are using any of these products and are concerned about how it might affect your blood pressure, talk to your doctor..

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