Blood Pressure Rise

[Toneman]

I am a a 48 year old male approx 50 pounds over weight and have mild hypertension. I have been on Statin therapy, Zocor, for about 2 years and my blood pressure had dropped from 140s/90s to 120s/80s. I was recently put on Celebrex for my arthritic knees and during this time I have seen my blood pressure increase to low 130s/mid80's.

Could this be the result of taking Celebrex? It has leveled off now and I know these are not dangerous numbers, but I would be more comfortable back where it was. I have had great results with the Celebrex, but should I look for an alternative?

Thank you in advance for your input.

Jon

[CCF-M.D.-MJM]

Hello,
Celebrex can raise blood pressure.  The only way to know for sure is to stop taking it and check you blood pressure for a few weeks afterwards.  There is no relationshop that I know of between statins and blood pressure.  I am sure you already know this, but the best solution for knee pain and hypertension is to lose hte extra 50 lbs.  If your blood pressue stays elevated, you should probably start and antihypertensive medications until you weight is under control -- either a diuretic like hydrochlorothiazide or an ACE inhibitor.

I hope this answers your questions.  Thanks for posting.

[Toneman]

Sorry, got my medications mixed up, I have been on Benicar HCT for blood pressure and Zocor for my lipids which are now normal. Also, I had a normal cardiac work up in March of this year including all the tests, nuclear stress, echo and bloodwork.

Sorry for the confusion.

Jon