Methods to increase blood pressure
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Pharmacological Methods to Increase Blood Pressure
Several medications and substances are known to increase blood pressure. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as coxibs and nonselective NSAIDs, can raise systolic blood pressure by about 2.8 to 3.9 mmHg. High doses of acetaminophen are also linked to a higher risk of developing hypertension. Oral contraceptives containing high doses of estrogen (at least 50 mg) have been associated with new-onset hypertension in about 5% of users, though such high doses are less common today. Certain antidepressants, especially serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can cause small increases in systolic blood pressure, while selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) generally do not have this effect. Herbal substances like licorice and ephedra are also known to raise blood pressure, with licorice acting through a specific hormonal pathway. The effects of these substances can be more pronounced in older adults, those with higher baseline blood pressure, or those with kidney disease Khan2023Wang2021.
Over-the-Counter and Herbal Substances That Raise Blood Pressure
Many over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and miscellaneous substances can increase blood pressure. Sympathomimetic amines, estrogen-containing oral contraceptives, certain antidepressants, angiogenesis inhibitors, and herbal products like ephedra are commonly implicated. These increases can sometimes lead to overt hypertension or even hypertensive crises, especially in people with other health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, diabetes, or obesity. It is important to monitor blood pressure when starting any new medication or supplement that could potentially raise it, and to review all substances a patient may be taking if blood pressure is difficult to control .
Physical and Mechanical Methods to Increase Blood Pressure
Applying extremity tourniquets can cause a significant increase in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. In healthy adults, bilateral leg tourniquet application raised systolic blood pressure by an average of 7 mmHg and diastolic by 4 mmHg, without significantly affecting heart rate. This method may have potential uses in situations where increasing blood pressure is necessary, such as during hemodynamic instability .
Cardiac Massage Techniques for Blood Pressure Elevation
In emergency or surgical settings, internal cardiac massage can increase systolic blood pressure to maintain organ perfusion. A specific technique involves squeezing the ascending aorta during the diastolic phase, which can help raise diastolic blood pressure as well. This approach is used to ensure adequate blood flow to vital organs during critical situations .
Non-Pharmacological Interventions and Their Effects
While most research focuses on lowering blood pressure, some interventions like light massage and certain emotional freedom techniques have been studied for their effects on blood pressure regulation. These methods are generally aimed at reducing blood pressure, but their mention in the context of blood pressure management highlights the range of non-drug interventions available .
Conclusion
Blood pressure can be increased through various methods, including certain medications (NSAIDs, oral contraceptives, SNRIs), herbal substances (licorice, ephedra), over-the-counter drugs, and mechanical interventions like tourniquet application or cardiac massage. The effects of these methods can vary depending on individual health factors and should be monitored carefully, especially in those at risk for hypertension or cardiovascular events.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic