Do Appetite Suppressants Raise Blood Pressure? Are They Safe To Take?

For those seeking to lose weight, appetite suppressants can be a game-changer. However, it’s important to be mindful of their potential effects on the cardiovascular system.

Certain compounds found in appetite suppressants have been known to constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure, which can be dangerous for those with hypertension.

Luckily, many studies have been done to find out if these supplements are safe for people with high blood pressure.

If you’re in the market for an effective appetite suppressant that’s suitable for those with hypertension, there are options available for review.

In this post, I’ll talk about how appetite suppressants can raise or lower blood pressure.

Do appetite suppressants raise blood pressure?

Many people turn to appetite suppressants for help with their weight loss journeys. However, it is important to consider the potential dangers associated with these pills.

Certain ingredients in appetite suppressants have been found to raise blood pressure and heart rate.

Studies suggest that this may be because of the serotonin pathway, which can make you feel less hungry by making more serotonin available outside of cells.

These pills make more of this neurotransmitter by either stopping it from being taken back up or making more of it come out.

Unfortunately, this can also lead to vasoconstriction of the pulmonary arteries and vascular fibrosis, which then raises blood pressure.

Also, the stimulant parts of these suppressants may directly raise blood pressure by making serotonin levels go up or by acting like other neurotransmitters.

These are five such substances discovered in appetite suppressants that can elevate your blood pressure:

Caffeine

Caffeine anhydrous is a widely consumed stimulant that elicits a range of physiological responses, including heightened alertness and an increased heart rate.

However, it is most commonly associated with negative cardiovascular effects. Caffeine acts like neurotransmitters and sets off nerve pathways, which causes the body to have a “fight or flight” response.

So, drinking a lot of caffeine can cause a sudden rise in blood pressure and hypertension if it is done often and in large amounts.

This is especially worrying for people with high blood pressure, who should only use caffeinated products in small amounts.

Many appetite suppressants and fat burners have a lot of caffeine in them, which shows how important it is to watch how much caffeine you take in.

Sibutramine

Sibutramine has gained recognition as a potent hunger-reducing compound that can facilitate weight loss.

There is no denying that it has shown promising results in clinical trials. However, a 2003 meta-analysis discovered that this drug may cause a slight increase in blood pressure.

Therefore, individuals with pre-existing hypertension or borderline blood pressure levels must use sibutramine cautiously.

Physicians must be consulted before starting any new medication, especially when underlying health conditions are at play.

Nonetheless, sibutramine continues to be a popular choice for those looking to shed some pounds and manage their cravings.

Guarana

Guarana, a natural herb derived from leaf extracts and seed powder, has become increasingly popular as a weight loss supplement.

Its thermogenic properties are responsible for increasing fat metabolism, providing energy, and promoting fast weight loss.

However, it is important to note that a pharmacological analysis by Cambridge University Press has shown that the combination of caffeine and ECGC in guarana can lead to an increased systolic BP of 7 mmHg and a diastolic BP of 5 mmHg.

Despite this, guarana continues to be used as a weight loss supplement due to its natural properties and effectiveness.

Synephrine

Synephrine, the alkaloid extracted from bitter orange, is commonly found in weight loss supplements due to its appetite-suppressing properties.

However, a 2017 review suggests that it may have adverse effects on the cardiovascular system, such as hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia, and myocardial infarction.

The combination of bitter orange with caffeine has been shown to intensify these side effects.

A randomized study also showed that even one dose of bitter orange can raise systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate.

Hoodia

Hoodia, a spiny succulent that thrives in African deserts, has been historically used as an appetite suppressant during desert excursions.

Its ability to trigger adrenergic receptors leads to a feeling of satiety, making it an effective aid in weight loss programs.

However, it is important to note that taking Hoodia may cause hypertension and an increased heart rate, which can have adverse effects on one’s health.

Despite its potential risks, Hoodia remains one of the most sought-after natural weight loss aids in the market today.

Is it safe to take appetite suppressants if you have high blood pressure?

If you have high blood pressure and are considering taking appetite suppressants, it’s crucial to exercise caution when it comes to ingredients that could increase your blood pressure.

While it is generally safe to take appetite suppressants if you have high blood pressure, it’s important to avoid supplements with high caffeine content or combinations of caffeine and other stimulants.

These substances can increase blood pressure, which could be potentially dangerous for someone with hypertension.

Before making any major changes to your diet or supplement routine, it’s always wise to consult with a doctor first. They can help you make an informed decision and ensure that any supplements you take are safe and effective for your specific health needs.

Safe appetite suppressants that don’t raise blood pressure

PhenQ is an all-natural, effective supplement for those seeking to lose weight. With its clinically proven ingredients, L-carnitine and α-Lacys Reset, PhenQ is capable of burning unwanted fat while also suppressing your appetite.

What sets PhenQ apart from other weight loss supplements is its relatively low caffeine content, making it a safe option for individuals with hypertension.

While it is available only on their official website, PhenQ can be purchased in bundle deals ranging from $139.90 to $189.95.

Although this may be a tad more expensive than other weight loss supplements, the all-natural extracts and added benefits are worth it.

Summary

Appetite suppressants have become a popular option for many people seeking to lose weight. However, while they may seem like a quick fix to reduce cravings, they can be detrimental to one’s health.

The most common side effect of these suppressants is hypertension, which can lead to cardiac issues.

People with high blood pressure should avoid products with a lot of caffeine and talk to a doctor before taking appetite suppressants.

There are, luckily, safe ways to get rid of those extra pounds, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and medicines taken with the right instructions.

Making smart choices and prioritizing overall health are the keys to long-term success in combating obesity.