Learn which types of medicines may increase the risk of blood clots or cardiovascular problems, who may be at higher risk, and which warning symptoms require urgent medical attention.
WARNING! These Tablets Can Increase the Risk of Blood Clots and Heart Problems
Some medicines can increase the risk of blood clots, heart attack, or other cardiovascular complications in certain people. However, the risk depends on the specific medication, dose, age, medical history, and other factors.
A medicine that carries a warning for one group of people may still be appropriate for another. Never stop a prescribed medication suddenly without speaking with your doctor or pharmacist.
1. Some Estrogen-Containing Birth-Control Pills
Certain hormonal contraceptive tablets containing estrogen can increase the risk of blood clots. The risk may be higher in people who smoke, have certain clotting disorders, have a previous history of blood clots, or have other cardiovascular risk factors.
Your healthcare professional can help determine which contraceptive option is safest for you.
2. Some Hormone Replacement Tablets
Certain oral hormone replacement treatments containing estrogen can increase the risk of blood clots and, depending on the person’s circumstances, other cardiovascular complications.
The risks and benefits vary between individuals and different forms of treatment, so medical advice is important before starting or changing HRT.
3. Some Medicines Used in Cancer Treatment
Certain cancer treatments can increase the risk of blood clots. Cancer itself can also raise clotting risk, making it particularly important for patients to understand the potential warning signs.
Anyone receiving cancer treatment should follow their healthcare team’s instructions and report new or unusual symptoms promptly.
4. Some Medicines Can Affect Cardiovascular Risk
A number of medicines can influence blood pressure, heart rate, fluid balance, cholesterol, or other factors related to cardiovascular health.
That doesn’t automatically mean they are unsafe. Doctors consider both the potential benefits and risks when prescribing medication.
Who May Have a Higher Risk?
The likelihood of developing a blood clot or cardiovascular problem can be influenced by factors such as:
- Previous blood clots
- Certain inherited clotting disorders
- Smoking
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Prolonged immobility
- Recent major surgery
- Certain cancers
- Increasing age
- Some hormone treatments
Having one or more of these factors doesn’t mean a blood clot or heart attack will definitely occur, but it can affect your overall risk.
Know the Warning Signs of a Blood Clot
A clot in a deep vein may cause swelling, pain, tenderness, warmth, or redness, particularly in one leg.
If a clot travels to the lungs, symptoms can include:
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Rapid heartbeat
- Coughing
- Coughing up blood
These symptoms can indicate a medical emergency.
Know the Warning Signs of a Heart Attack
Possible heart attack symptoms include pressure, squeezing, or pain in the chest, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or discomfort that may spread to the arm, shoulder, back, neck, or jaw.
Symptoms can vary, especially among women and older adults.
If you suspect a heart attack or serious blood clot, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Don’t Stop Your Medicine on Your Own
If you’ve read that a medication may increase the risk of blood clots or heart problems, don’t panic and don’t suddenly stop taking it.
Instead, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. They can review your medication, personal risk factors, and whether an alternative treatment is appropriate.
Final Thoughts
There is no single list of tablets that everyone should avoid. Some medications can increase the risk of blood clots or cardiovascular complications, but the actual risk varies from person to person.
Knowing your medications, understanding their potential side effects, and recognizing serious warning symptoms can help you make safer decisions about your health.