CARACAS, Venezuela—New U.S. sanctions are designed to choke Venezuelan oil revenue and oust the current leader, paving the way for better days. But many people worry about collateral damage.

Amarilis Azuaje, a 49-year-old accountant who stood under a baking sun Tuesday waiting to buy state subsidized pasta, said battering Venezuela’s already disastrous economy will make life even tougher for her and others.

“We’re...