High Blood Pressure & OTC Pain Relievers

Can I take TYLENOL® if I have high blood pressure?

Pain relievers may affect your blood pressure.

TYLENOL^® is the #1 doctor recommended pain relief brand for those with high blood pressure.

If you have questions on whether TYLENOL^® is right for you, talk to your doctor.

Do NSAIDs raise or lower blood pressure?

NSAIDs like ibuprofen (e.g. Advil®, MOTRIN®) and naproxen sodium (e.g. Aleve®) can produce several effects on your body that may further worsen high blood pressure. NSAIDs can:

• Impact sodium and water retention in the kidneys
• Increase resistance of blood vessels (constricts blood flow), which can raise blood pressure.

Additionally, NSAIDs have a clearly established mechanism of interaction between certain high blood pressure treatments, such as diuretics, and can reduce the effectiveness of previously prescribed high blood pressure treatments.

It is important to read all medicine labels to understand which active ingredients are present and how they might interact with one another to ensure safe use of OTC and prescription medications.

What about taking aspirin for heart health?

Some patients take aspirin to protect against heart attack or stroke. Ibuprofen, a common NSAID, may decrease that heart health benefit.

If you are on aspirin heart therapy, acetaminophen may be a more appropriate pain relief option for you.