The use of certain prescription medications and street drugs can lead to the development of pulmonary hypertension. Here’s a list of drugs that have been linked to the onset of the disease according to the Pulmonary Hypertension Association of Canada.
Weight Loss Medications
Weight loss medications or appetite suppressants have been linked to pulmonary hypertension. These include:
- Aminorex
- Dexfenfluramine (Redux)
- Fenfluramine (Ponderal, Pondimin)
- Phentermine (Ionamin)
- Mazindol
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is used to treat cancer and some autoimmune diseases such as lupus. Chemotherapy medications that could increase the risk of developing pulmonary hypertension include:
- Bleomycin
- Busulfan
- Carmustine (BCNU)
- Dasatinib
- Interferon-alpha
- Interleukin-2
- Lomustine (CCNU)
- Mitomycin C
- Nitrosoureas
MORE: Breast cancer patient develops pulmonary hypertension after chemotherapy and radiation treatment.
Street Drugs
Abuse of street drugs (or recreational drugs) may also increase the risk of a person developing pulmonary hypertension. In particular, the following drugs:
- Amphetamine
- Cocaine
- Methamphetamine
Other Medicines
A type of amino acid commonly used to treat disorders such as sleep apnea and depression may also increase the risk of pulmonary hypertension:
- L-tryptophan
MORE: How oxygen therapy helps with pulmonary hypertension
Pulmonary Hypertension News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
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