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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Understanding Heart Palpitations and Medications to Treat Them
Introduction
Heart palpitations are sensations of rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeats. They might feel like your heart is skipping beats or beating too hard. Palpitations can be caused by stress, caffeine, certain medications, heart disease, or hormonal changes.
Common Causes of Heart Palpitations
- Lifestyle Factors : Excess caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, or stress.
- Heart Conditions : Arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms), heart disease.
- Metabolic Causes : Thyroid problems, low blood sugar, dehydration.
- Medication Effects : Some drugs can trigger palpitations.
Medications for Heart Palpitations
Treatment depends on the cause. If palpitations are harmless, no medication is needed. If they stem from an underlying condition, these medications might be prescribed:
1. Beta-Blockers
- Example: Metoprolol, Atenolol
- Mechanism: Slows heart rate and reduces the force of heart contractions.
- Uses: Effective for arrhythmias and anxiety-related palpitations.
2. Calcium Channel Blockers
- Example: Verapamil, Diltiazem
- Mechanism: Relaxes blood vessels and slows heart rate.
- Uses: Used in arrhythmias and high blood pressure.
3. Antiarrhythmic Medications
- Example: Flecainide, Amiodarone
- Mechanism: Helps regulate abnormal heart rhythms.
- Uses: Used for serious arrhythmias where other treatments fail.
4. Sedatives or Anxiolytics
- Example: Diazepam, Lorazepam (only if anxiety-induced)
- Mechanism: Reduces stress and anxiety-related palpitations.
- Uses: Only for short-term use under medical supervision.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical attention if palpitations are: - Persistent and frequent. - Associated with chest pain, dizziness, or fainting. - Worsening over time.
Conclusion
Heart palpitations are usually harmless but can sometimes signal a serious underlying condition. Identifying the cause is crucial. If necessary, medications like beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or antiarrhythmic drugs can help manage symptoms effectively under a doctor's supervision.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Arrhythmias
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29084733/
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Supraventricular Arrhythmias
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/41/5/655/5556821
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000311
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31504425/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000091380.04100.84
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
Our advantages:
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
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