These medications can cause sleep apnea or worsen existing apnea, putting extreme strain on the heart and potentially leading to dangerous heart rhythm disturbances. They can also interfere with essential heart medications such as beta-blockers.
Tricyclic antidepressants: A class to watch
Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline or nortriptyline, were once commonly prescribed for depression, anxiety, or chronic pain. These medications carry significant cardiac risks, particularly for people over 60.They can cause irregular heartbeats, fluctuations in blood pressure, and even a dangerous condition called heart block. Over time, they interfere with the electrical signals that control heart rhythm, making them particularly dangerous for older adults who already have arrhythmias.

Decongestants: Hidden Cardiovascular Risks
Decongestants like pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, found in many cold and allergy medications, work by narrowing blood vessels. However, they also narrow blood vessels throughout the body, including those that supply the heart.