Table 3 Therapeutic agents and other substances that may affect blood pressure.

From: Investigation and management of resistant hypertension: British and Irish Hypertension Society position statement

Mechanism of Action

Sympathetic activation

Volume retention

Direct Vasoconstriction

Other

• Cocaine

• Stimulants often used for ADHD, narcolepsy and hypersomnias

• Decongestants

• Bronchodilators

• Antidepressants

• NSAIDs

• Sex hormones e.g., combined contraceptive pill

• Corticosteroids

• Liquorice

• Sodium containing antacids

• VEGF inhibitors

• Calcineurin inhibitors

• Erythrocyte stimulating agents

• Tyrosine kinase inhibitors

• Diet supplements (Ephedra, Yohimbine, bitter orange)

  1. ADHD attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, NSAIDS non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, VEGF vascular endothelial growth factor.
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