A leading New York cardiologist warns that phthalates—chemicals used to soften gel capsules—may raise the risk of heart attacks. This finding affects everyday medicines such as pain relievers, multivitamins, stool softeners, and cold remedies. The message is timely for Thai readers as over-the-counter medicines are widely available and health awareness grows across the country.
Phthalates, also known as plasticizers, are added to many products to provide flexibility. They are present in a range of items from children’s toys to food packaging, and crucially, in the shells of many oral medications. A senior cardiologist at Mount Sinai notes that phthalates in medical capsules can trigger arterial inflammation and oxidative stress, accelerating artery hardening and narrowing—processes linked to heart disease. A cautious interpretation comes from recent reporting and ongoing research, underscoring the need for careful handling of medicines.
The evidence spans a mix of studies and population data. A 2021 study in Environmental Pollution followed over 5,000 older adults for nearly a decade and found a modest but meaningful rise in cardiovascular mortality among those with higher urinary phthalate levels. Experts explain that oxidative byproducts from these chemicals can damage cardiovascular tissue, disrupt lipid metabolism, and promote plaque buildup. In 2025, data published in PubMed highlighted DEHP, a common phthalate, as a contributor to cardiovascular deaths worldwide. Researchers stress that plastics and their additives can influence heart health.
Within Thailand, awareness of phthalate exposure has grown, but policy action remains in development. Thai researchers emphasize that phthalates appear across domestic use—from food containers to medical products—and call for stronger monitoring and cross-agency collaboration. Urban studies in Bangkok have found indoor dust to be a notable source of phthalate exposure, including among children, prompting concern for families in dense urban areas.
Cardiology experts explain how phthalates may harm the heart: after ingestion, these chemicals can irritate arterial walls, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis. Oxidative stress can further damage heart cells and disrupt lipid balance, potentially raising triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. The result is a higher chance of heart rhythm problems, heart attacks, and even sudden cardiac death.
Officials at Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration note that while regulations have tightened for certain phthalates in toys and packaging, pharmaceutical exposures remain less understood. Public health researchers advocate stronger safety assessments and reformulation where possible, aligning with international best practices. Ongoing biomonitoring and safer alternatives are part of the recommended path forward.
Vulnerable groups—children, pregnant women, and older adults—face the greatest risk, given their frequent use of soft-gel medicines and dietary supplements. Thai data show urinary phthalate metabolites can be as high as those found in European populations, underscoring the urgency of action. Cultural habits, including the popularity of herbal and dietary supplements in soft gel form, may amplify exposure risks.
Some countries are phasing out the most harmful phthalates in favor of safer alternatives. However, not all substitutes are proven safe, and regulatory gaps remain for pharmaceutical use. The Thai healthcare system faces the challenge of ensuring access to effective medicines while reducing unintended chemical exposure. Public education about chemical risks remains a priority as Thailand continues its healthcare modernization.
Experts recommend several steps: clearer labeling of medicine ingredients, stronger regulation of plasticizers in pharmaceuticals, and ongoing surveillance of phthalate exposure in the Thai population. Consumers are urged to consult healthcare professionals before frequent or long-term use of soft-gel medications and to prefer medicines labeled as “phthalate-free” when available. Families should limit plastic-containing food storage and toy use, a precaution already reinforced by public health campaigns.
Takeaways for Thai readers: stay vigilant about the medications and supplements you use, especially those in soft-gel form. Ask pharmacists or clinicians about potential additives in medicines and consider alternatives when available. Parents and caregivers should be especially cautious with products for children or older adults with chronic conditions. On a broader scale, support policy improvements—such as clearer ingredient disclosures and safety testing for medicine excipients—to safeguard health as Thailand’s healthcare system evolves.
For further context, see general discussions on phthalates and health from scholarly summaries and national health insights. Data from environmental health studies and Thai public health assessments indicate the need for careful management of chemical exposure in everyday products.