Drugs Without A Prescription

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are drugs that can be purchased at a pharmacy or grocery store without a doctor’s prescription. These medicines are meant to treat minor ailments like pain, fever, allergies, coughs, colds, and diarrhea. Some common examples include pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen, allergy meds like diphenhydramine and antacids for heartburn. When taking any new medication or supplement always follow the dosage instructions carefully and consult with a doctor prior to consumption.

Managing hypertension

High blood pressure (BP), or hypertension, is a commonly diagnosed chronic condition. More than half of American adults have high BP, with many unaware of the condition. Hypertension is when the force or pressure exerted by blood flowing through the blood vessels is constantly elevated. The best way to know if high blood pressure is an issue is to get checked by a health professional. While many people opt for prescriptions to ensure that hypertension is well-managed, other individuals may prefer over-the-counter supplements.

Potassium

An essential nutrient required by the body to function properly, potassium aids with muscle function and helps regulate liquids at a cellular level. Potassium can also help control blood pressure by removing excess sodium in the urine and relaxing blood vessel walls. Supplements are a great way to boost potassium levels unless a person suffers from kidney disorders.

Fiber

Found naturally in berries, cruciferous vegetables, and chia seeds, fiber is an incredibly effective nutrient that can help in various ways. Most people know that fiber can aid in supporting regularity to prevent constipation and is also beneficial for losing or maintaining weight. However, research has also proven that fiber supplements can reduce diastolic and systolic blood pressure.

Magnesium

Most people focus on magnesium as an essential nutrient that aids in muscle and nerve function. The mineral is also linked with boosting the immune system’s response and supporting protein synthesis in the body. For people with high BP, research suggests that magnesium supplements can also reduce hypertension. In trials, results pointed to a daily intake of 300mg for at least a month as the optimal amount to lower blood pressure.

Folic acid

Pregnancy is typically the first subject that comes to mind when folic acid is mentioned. The vitamin is a critical component that’s needed to support fetal development. As a result, pregnant women are often encouraged to take prenatal vitamins with sufficient folic acid to support the needs of both mom and baby. This vitamin B supplement can also protect pregnant women from developing preeclampsia, a form of pregnancy-specific hypertension.

Supplement safely

The decision to take OTC supplements instead of prescriptions to control hypertension should be made after thoroughly researching and understanding the risks and benefits. Not all hypertensive individuals are good candidates for OTC-driven condition management. Before starting a non-prescription hypertension regimen, consult a physician or pharmacist for guidance.