Frequent Use of Nonnarcotic Analgesics Associated with Hypertension in Men

Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin — among the most-used medications in the U.S. — may increase the risk for hypertension through a variety of mechanisms. All three analgesics may inhibit vasodilatory prostaglandins; acetaminophen may increase oxidative stress; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may increase renal sodium reabsorption; and both acetaminophen and NSAIDs may impair endothelial function. In a prospective observational study using data from the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, researchers assessed this relation among about 16,000 men (average age, 65) with no history of hypertension. Participants reported how often they used acetaminophen, NSAIDs, and aspirin at baseline and at year 2.

During a mean follow-up of 4 years…