Cardiologist says these 5 common medicines could harm your heart without any warning

Medicines are meant to heal—but what good are they if they cure one problem while quietly creating another? Many drugs we rely on for everyday aches, colds, or chronic conditions have been around for years and are often trusted without a second thought.

But just because something is familiar doesn’t mean it’s completely safe.In fact, some commonly used medications might be doing more harm than we realize—especially to the heart. In a recent Instagram post, cardiologist Dr. Dmitry Yaranov sounded the alarm on five widely used drugs that could potentially harm your heart without clear warning signs. “As a cardiologist, I see how some commonly used medications can silently damage your heart,” he wrote, urging patients to stay informed and proactive.Here are the five medications Dr. Yaranov cautions about—and why they deserve a closer look:

NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Naproxen)

Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen and naproxen are go-to solutions for headaches, joint pain, and inflammation. But when used frequently or in high doses, they can raise blood pressure, cause fluid retention, and even lead to heart failure, especially in individuals with existing cardiovascular issues.

Certain chemotherapy drugs (e.g., Doxorubicin, Trastuzumab)

Some meds used during the chemotherapy, have been found to come at a cost to your heart.

Some chemotherapy agents are known to weaken the heart muscle over time, increasing the risk of heart failure. That’s why many cancer patients undergo regular cardiac monitoring during and after treatment.

Stimulants (e.g., Amphetamines, ADHD Medications)

Medications prescribed for ADHD and narcolepsy, such as amphetamines, can elevate heart rate and blood pressure. In some cases, they may trigger arrhythmias or even heart attacks, particularly in those with underlying heart conditions or high cardiovascular risk.

Older diabetes medications (e.g., Rosiglitazone)

Some earlier-generation diabetes drugs have been linked to an increased risk of heart failure. While they may help manage blood sugar, they’re no longer considered first-line due to their impact on heart health. Newer options now offer better cardiovascular safety, so it's worth discussing alternatives with your doctor.

Decongestants

Decongestants (e.g., Pseudoephedrine)found in many cold and flu medications, work by narrowing blood vessels to relieve nasal congestion. However, they can also spike blood pressure and disturb heart rhythms. Thus if you are diagnosed with high blood pressure or any heart disease, it is advised to opt for these meds only after getting it approved by your doctors.