Low Blood Pressure Causes

Low blood pressure, which is also known as hypotension, doesn't get as much media attention as high blood pressure. But low blood pressure is a health threat nonetheless.

So are heart palpitations and a low heart rate.

All of these can be side effects of taking medications designed to fight other physical problems. Here's a list:

Digitek or digoxin If you have heart problems, specifically congestive heart failure or atrial fibrillation, your doctor may have prescribed Digitek or digoxin. In some people it causes side effects that include low blood pressure.

Atenolol This medication is sold under the brand name Tenormin. It is intended to relieve chest pains and lower high blood pressure, Sometimes it's prescribed for people who have had a heart attack, or to help at-risk patients prevent a heart attack. But it can cause slow heart rate, heart palpitations, faintness, cold hands and feet, and other side effects.

Wellbutrin Wellbutrin, which is also known as bupropion or Zyban, is sometimes prescribed for depression, seasonal affective disorder. and (under the brand name Zyban), as a smoking cessation aid. But some people who have taken it report low blood pressure and irregular heart beat. It may also cause nausea, vomiting, excessive sweating, dizziness, and joint pain.

There are a number of health conditions that may also cause low blood pressure.