Do you take weight loss pills for hypertension

Hypertensive patients are usually not recommended to take weight loss pills on their own, and medication risks should be evaluated based on individual circumstances under the guidance of a doctor. Weight loss drugs may increase cardiovascular burden by affecting blood pressure, heart rate, or metabolic pathways, and caution should be exercised when combined with hypertension. Some weight loss drugs contain components that stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, such as sibutramine hydrochloride preparations, which may cause elevated blood pressure and heart rate, and may trigger cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events in patients with pre-existing hypertension. Some traditional Chinese patent medicines and simple preparations weight loss products may contain diuretic ingredients, which may lead to electrolyte disorder while reducing weight in a short time, and may affect the stability of blood pressure instead. At present, although the approved Orlistat capsules in China do not directly act on the cardiovascular system, they may lead to a deficiency of fat soluble vitamins due to fat absorption disorders, and long-term use requires monitoring of nutritional status. Some health products claiming to have weight loss effects may illegally add Western medicine ingredients, posing an unassessed medication risk. When evaluating, doctors will comprehensively consider the patient's blood pressure control, body mass index and whether there are complications such as diabetes. If necessary, they may recommend lifestyle intervention prior to drug weight loss. Hypertensive patients should prioritize a low salt and low-fat diet for weight control, with a daily sodium intake of no more than 5 grams and an increase in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits intake. Regular aerobic exercise such as brisk walking and swimming, accumulating 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week, can help improve metabolism. Monitor daily morning resting blood pressure and record fluctuations to avoid staying up late and emotional excitement. If the body mass index exceeds 28 and there are abnormalities in glucose and lipid metabolism, one can seek medical attention at the cardiology or endocrinology department to evaluate the need for a combined weight loss program based on standardized antihypertensive treatment. Sudden weight gain accompanied by lower limb edema should alert to heart failure and prompt medical examination and screening.