When the Six Flags amusement park in New Jersey opens Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom this summer, it'll become the tallest "drop ride" in the world - 41 stories!

The park's warning about the risks is not just marketing hype; folks on the "not recommended" list include anyone with high blood pressure.

That knocks out more than 30 percent of Americans and nearly 20 percent of Canadians who have HBP (above 140/90) and are at increased risk for diabetes, heart attack, stroke, impotence, skin wrinkling and memory loss.

Unfortunately, almost 20 percent of you who have this silent disabler and killer don't know it. So stop in at your local pharmacy or see your doc to learn what your BP is.

And while you're there, ask if any medications you're taking can increase your pressure.

A daily acetaminophen may, as can other pain relievers, including ibuprofen and naproxen.

Many antidepressants also trigger a rise (switching may solve the problem). Hormonal birth control also may increase your BP and stroke risk (take two low-dose aspirins daily if you're on BC pills or hormone therapy).

Recently, the Food and Drug Administration has been encouraged to establish new labeling guidelines so consumers will know when a drug may increase blood pressure.

We agree.

But until then, YOU need to ask your doctor and pharmacist about the possible blood-pressure side effects of the drugs and supplements you're taking.

And going forward, make it part of the conversation whenever you get a new prescription.

Then your meds won't take your blood pressure on a roller-coaster ride!