Pain Relievers Work Against Blood Pressure Drugs

[Andrew]

Pain relief drugs called COX inhibitors may reduce the blood pressure-lowering effects of ACE inhibitors, new research suggests. This drug interaction seems to occur even with newer COX inhibitors, such as Celebrex (celecoxib) and Vioxx (rofecoxib), although these agents do not appear to cause kidney problems that can occur with older pain relievers, such as Voltaren, Motrin and Relafen. Researchers examined the effects of Celebrex and Voltaren on blood pressure and kidney function in 25 patients with arthritis and high blood pressure being treated with an ACE inhibitor. At four weeks, Voltaren worsened overall blood pressure control more than Celebrex in patients who were also taking an ACE inhibitor. However, at peak drug levels, Voltaren and Celebrex had similar effects on blood pressure.

[Mary]

Thanks Big... since I am on blood pressure meds this will be helpful.

[Andrew]

You're welcome