Overview
- Dr Aurelio Rojas lists omeprazole, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, diclofenac and naproxen, nasal decongestants, diuretics and some antidepressants including amitriptyline as concerns for people exercising intensely.
- He says long‑term omeprazole use may reduce absorption of magnesium, iron and vitamin B12, which can undermine energy, recovery and cardiovascular health.
- Rojas warns that taking NSAIDs before workouts can impair kidney blood flow and raise the risk of cardiovascular events, with dehydration compounding the danger.
- He cautions that decongestants can elevate blood pressure and heart rate and trigger arrhythmias, while diuretics can deplete potassium and magnesium, causing cramps, tachycardia and drops in blood pressure during training.
- His advice emphasizes medical consultation, avoiding these drugs immediately before intense sessions, staying hydrated, monitoring electrolytes, arranging blood tests for long‑term PPI users and scheduling annual athlete check‑ups.