Dynapar (Quazepam) Does Not Cause High Blood Pressure
Dynapar (quazepam), a benzodiazepine, does not cause hypertension and may actually lower blood pressure through central nervous system mechanisms. This is fundamentally different from NSAIDs (which are sometimes marketed under similar brand names like "Dynapar" in some countries as diclofenac), which do significantly raise blood pressure.
Critical Clarification: Drug Identity Matters
- If "Dynapar" refers to the NSAID diclofenac (common in some markets), then YES, it causes hypertension by 3-6 mm Hg in patients with controlled hypertension and antagonizes antihypertensive medications 1, 2
- If "Dynapar" refers to quazepam (the benzodiazepine), then NO, it does not cause hypertension 3, 4
Benzodiazepines and Blood Pressure: The Evidence
Hypotensive Effects
- Benzodiazepines like diazepam actually reduce both systolic and mean arterial blood pressure through central mechanisms by decreasing muscle sympathetic nerve activity 4
- Alprazolam showed no effect on 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure or heart rate in hypertensive patients when used as a hypnotic 5
- The FDA label for quazepam does not list hypertension as an adverse effect, though it extensively details withdrawal symptoms including hypertension during acute withdrawal (not during active use) 3
Withdrawal-Related Hypertension
- Hypertension occurs during benzodiazepine withdrawal, not during active treatment 3
- Acute withdrawal signs include hypertension, tachycardia, and other autonomic symptoms when benzodiazepines are abruptly discontinued 3
- This is a rebound phenomenon, not a direct drug effect during therapeutic use 3
NSAIDs and Hypertension: If Dynapar is Diclofenac
Blood Pressure Effects
- NSAIDs increase blood pressure by 3-6 mm Hg in patients with controlled hypertension, with effects appearing within the first weeks of treatment 1
- They antagonize the blood pressure-lowering effects of ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics, and beta-blockers 1, 2
Management Recommendations
- Avoid systemic NSAIDs when possible and consider alternative analgesics such as acetaminophen, tramadol, or topical NSAIDs 1, 2
- Use NSAIDs for the shortest duration possible and avoid in severe or uncontrolled hypertension 2
- Monitor blood pressure closely during the first weeks of NSAID treatment 1
Medications That Actually Cause Hypertension
Major guideline-recognized culprits include 2, 1:
- NSAIDs (most common)
- Decongestants (pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine)
- Amphetamines and stimulants
- Certain antidepressants (SNRIs, MAOIs, TCAs)
- Systemic corticosteroids
- Immunosuppressants (cyclosporine)
- Oral contraceptives (high-dose estrogen)
Benzodiazepines are notably absent from all major hypertension guideline lists of medications that cause elevated blood pressure 2, 1, 6
Clinical Bottom Line
Quazepam (benzodiazepine) does not cause hypertension during therapeutic use 3, 4. If blood pressure elevation occurs in a patient taking this medication, search for other causes including withdrawal states, concomitant medications (especially NSAIDs, decongestants, or stimulants), or underlying hypertension 2, 1.