Older adults often take several medications at the same time, and most of those treatments are prescribed because their benefits outweigh their risks. Still, certain medicines can raise blood pressure, increase the tendency to form blood clots, disturb heart rhythm, or interact with existing cardiovascular conditions.

That does not mean everyone taking these drugs will suffer a heart attack or stroke. Risk depends on the medication, dose, duration of use, age, medical history, and other medicines being taken.

Most importantly, never stop a prescribed medication on your own because of an online warning. Instead, understand which drug groups deserve extra caution and discuss concerns with a doctor or pharmacist.

1. Certain Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, commonly called NSAIDs, are widely used for pain and inflammation.

Examples include medicines containing:

Ibuprofen
Naproxen
Diclofenac
Celecoxib

These medications can be helpful for arthritis, injuries, and other painful conditions, but they are not completely risk-free.

Some NSAIDs can increase the risk of cardiovascular events, particularly in people who already have heart disease or major risk factors.

They may also: