The Connection Between Neurological Medicines and Heart Palpitations

Neurological medicines, also known as neurologic or neurotropic drugs, are used to treat a variety of conditions affecting the nervous system. These include epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and many others. However, like all medications, they can have side effects. One such side effect that has been reported is heart palpitations, a sensation where your heart beats too hard or too fast, skips a beat, or flutters. This article will explore the connection between neurological medicines and heart palpitations.

What are Neurological Medicines?

Neurological medicines are drugs that are used to treat disorders of the nervous system. They work by altering the activity of the brain and other parts of the nervous system. Some of these drugs work by increasing or decreasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, while others work by blocking the action of these chemicals.

How Can Neurological Medicines Cause Heart Palpitations?

Some neurological medicines can cause heart palpitations as a side effect. This is because these drugs can affect the autonomic nervous system, which controls the heart rate. When the balance of chemicals in the brain is altered, it can cause the heart to beat faster or slower than normal, leading to palpitations.

Which Neurological Medicines are Known to Cause Heart Palpitations?

• Antiepileptic drugs: These are used to treat seizures in conditions like epilepsy. Some of these drugs, like phenytoin and carbamazepine, have been reported to cause heart palpitations.

• Antidepressants: Some antidepressants, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine and sertraline, can cause heart palpitations.

• Stimulants: Drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), like methylphenidate and amphetamine, can cause heart palpitations.

What Should You Do If You Experience Heart Palpitations?

If you are taking a neurological medicine and experience heart palpitations, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication. It is also important to avoid triggers that can make heart palpitations worse, such as caffeine, alcohol, and stress.

Conclusion

While neurological medicines can cause heart palpitations, it is important to remember that this is a relatively rare side effect. Most people who take these drugs do not experience any heart problems. However, if you do experience heart palpitations while taking a neurological medicine, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.