Medications
Several medications cause low blood pressure
- High blood pressure drugs
In a bid to correct high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, it may cause a sudden drop in the pressure levels, causing hypotension. Medications [5] such as digoxin and beta-blockers for high blood pressure can reduce the electrical discharges in the heart, which slows down heart contractions and causes hypotension. Elderly people have a high risk of experiencing low blood pressure as a side effect of these medicines.
Weakened heart muscles are more likely to have cardiovascular issues, including electrical emission and transmission problems. In a few patients, small doses of these medications can cause a significant drop in blood pressure level, which is usually dangerous. Diuretics, also called water pills are medicines for high blood pressure by helping the body get rid of sodium and water. Water pills like hydrochlorothiazide and furosemide help your kidneys release more sodium into your urine, which causes excessive urination and can decrease blood volume.
- Drugs for depression, Parkinson’s disease, and erectile dysfunction
Amitriptyline (Elavil) is an anti-depressant that may cause hypotension. Parkinson’s disease, such as levodopa-carbidopa (Sinemet) may also cause blood pressure levels to fall. Drugs to correct erectile dysfunction or impotence, such as sildenafil, popularly known as viagra, vardenafil, and tadalafil may also trigger this condition when used in combination with some heart medicines. Substances like alcohol and narcotics also can cause low blood pressure.