Over 60 and taking medications regularly? Learn about 5 common types of pills that may deserve a medication review with your doctor, including aspirin, NSAIDs, decongestants, diabetes medicines, and certain heart medications.
Over 60 and Concerned About Heart Health? 5 Common Pills Worth Reviewing With Your Doctor
As we get older, medications can become an important part of staying healthy. But the body can also become more sensitive to certain medicines, and the risks and benefits of a medication may change over time.
That doesn’t mean you should stop taking a prescribed medicine. Instead, it is a good reason to periodically review all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter products with your doctor or pharmacist.
Here are five categories worth discussing.
1. Aspirin
Low-dose aspirin is sometimes prescribed to reduce the risk of another heart attack or stroke in people who already have cardiovascular disease.
However, taking aspirin simply to prevent a first heart attack or stroke is different. In older adults, the risk of serious bleeding can outweigh the potential benefit in some people. The American Geriatrics Society’s 2023 Beers Criteria recommends against initiating aspirin for primary cardiovascular prevention in older adults, while noting that aspirin can remain appropriate for secondary prevention.
Never stop prescribed aspirin suddenly without discussing it with your doctor.
2. Ibuprofen and Other NSAID Painkillers
Common pain relievers such as ibuprofen and naproxen can be useful for certain conditions, but regular use can be problematic for some older adults.
NSAIDs may increase blood pressure and can contribute to kidney injury and gastrointestinal bleeding. These risks become particularly important with prolonged use or when combined with certain other medicines.
If you regularly take an over-the-counter painkiller, ask whether there is a safer option for your particular situation.
3. Decongestants
Some cold and allergy products contain decongestants that can affect blood pressure and heart rate.
This is particularly relevant if you have hypertension, an irregular heartbeat, or other cardiovascular problems.
Before buying a cold remedy, check the active ingredients and ask a pharmacist whether it is appropriate for you.
4. Certain Diabetes Medicines
As people age, kidney function and the way the body responds to medications can change.
Some diabetes medicines may require dose adjustments or closer monitoring, particularly when kidney function is reduced or when several medications are being taken simultaneously.
Don’t change your diabetes medication on your own. Instead, ask your healthcare professional whether your current dose remains appropriate.
5. Certain Heart and Blood-Pressure Medicines
Blood-pressure and heart medications can be extremely beneficial, but they may occasionally cause problems such as dizziness, low blood pressure, electrolyte abnormalities, or interactions with other medications.
A medication review can help determine whether your current combination is still appropriate.
This is especially important if you have recently experienced:
- Dizziness or fainting
- Unusual weakness
- Falls
- Very low blood pressure readings
- Swelling
- Changes in kidney function
- New or worsening symptoms after starting a medication
Don’t Forget Over-the-Counter Products
When reviewing your medications, don’t mention only prescription pills.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about everything you take, including:
- Vitamins
- Herbal products
- Pain relievers
- Sleep aids
- Cold medicines
- Antacids
- Supplements
- Medicines borrowed from family or friends
Drug interactions can occur even when a product is available without a prescription.
A Medication Review Can Be Worthwhile
If you’re over 60 and take several medications, consider asking your doctor or pharmacist for a complete medication review.
Bring your actual medication bottles or an up-to-date list and ask:
“Do I still need every medication I’m taking, and are any of them interacting with each other?”
The goal isn’t to take fewer medications simply for the sake of taking fewer. The goal is to make sure every medication has a clear purpose and that its benefits continue to outweigh its risks.
One Important Rule
Don’t stop a prescription heart, blood-pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, or blood-thinning medication because of something you read online.
Medication decisions should be individualized based on your medical history, current conditions, kidney function, other medicines, and cardiovascular risk.
A regular medication review with a healthcare professional can help you stay on the safest and most appropriate treatment plan.