Age
Smoking
Previous blood clots
Migraine with aura
Obesity
Cardiovascular disease

Hormone therapy can still be appropriate for many people, but it should be individualized rather than taken without assessment of cardiovascular and clotting risks.

4. Certain Stimulant Medications

Stimulant medicines can increase heart rate and blood pressure.

Some are prescribed for conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, while others may appear in weight-loss products or unregulated supplements.

Possible cardiovascular effects can include:

Faster heartbeat
Higher blood pressure
Palpitations
Increased cardiac workload

For most appropriately screened patients, prescribed stimulants can be used safely. But older adults or people with established cardiovascular disease may require closer monitoring.

Unregulated “energy” or weight-loss products deserve particular caution because they may contain stimulant ingredients that are poorly disclosed.

5. Some Cancer and Immune-System Treatments

Certain medications used to treat cancer, autoimmune disease, or inflammatory conditions can affect the cardiovascular system.

Depending on the specific treatment, possible effects may include: