AboutWilliam B. Jeffries, Ph.D. Expertise Questions on the mechanism of action and side effects of antihypertensive drugs, the epidemiology of hypertension and the cardiovascular complications of untreated or undertreated high blood pressure
Experience I have been an investigator in the field of hypertension research for over 20 years.
Organizations Council for High Blood Pressure Research
American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics
American Heart Association
Publications Hypertension, Journal of Hypertension, Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Molecular Pharmacology, American Journal of Physiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics of Dentistry
Question Hello again, My husband is taking Cardizem CD 360MG and
Lisinopril-HCTZ 20-12.5 for high blood pressure. His thyroid was borderline six months ago and his doctor started him on synthroid 100MCG, I read that Synthroid was hard on the heart. Would you have put my husband on this if his thyroid was only borderline?
Answer I am sorry but I can not give specific medical advice in this format. Synthroid can increase metabolic rate in patients which can produce a rapid heart, palpitations, high blood pressure and rare cardiovascular complications. Your husband's doctor likely understands these complications and has decided that the potential benefit outweighs the risk. If there is a doubt in your mind as to the risk/benefit ratio, it is advisable to seek anonther opinion. At the very least you should ask your husband's doctor about your concerns and get him/her to explain the reasons for this choice of medicines.
