Bronchodilators and exercise:
Methylxanthines such as theophylline, sympathomimetic agents (such as ephedra, pseudoephedrine, amphetamines and methamphetamines), cromolyn sodium, and corticosteroids such as prednisone or methylprednisolone increase exercise capacity in patients with limited bronchospasm. During rest and exercise, methylxanthines and sympathomimetic agents (albuterol) increase or have no effect on heart rate and blood pressure. Sympathomimetic agents may also increase blood pressure during rest and exercise. Cromolyn sodium and corticosteroids have no effect on either heart rate or blood pressure during rest and exercise.
Hyperlipidemic agents and exercise:
These medications with the exception of clofibrate and nicotinic acid (also known as niacin), have no effect on heart rate or blood pressure. In patients with prior heart attack, clofibrate and dextrothyroxine may increase arrhythmias and angina. If you are taking dextrothyroxine, it is advisable to discontinue it because it was pulled from the market due to cardiac adverse effects. During rest and exercise, dextrothyroxine may increase heart rate and blood pressure and worsen myocardial ischemia. Probucol is a cholesterol lowering agent which decreases LDL but it is advisable to discontinue since it may also lower HDL. Blood pressure is decreased by use of nicotinic acid (Niacin) and use of probucol may decrease heart rate (QT interval lengthens). During rest and exercise, nicotine increases blood pressure and either increases or has no effect on heart rate.