Can pregabalin make your heart beat faster?
Pregabalin can cause changes in heart-related symptoms for some people, including an increased heart rate (tachycardia). However, the effect is not the same for everyone, and many people take pregabalin without noticing a persistent heart-rate increase.
What heart symptoms should you watch for?
People taking pregabalin sometimes report heart-related side effects such as:
- Feeling like the heart is racing or pounding (palpitations)
- Increased heart rate
- Dizziness or lightheadedness, which can be related to blood pressure changes as well
If the rapid heartbeat comes with chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath, or signs of an allergic reaction (swelling of the face/lips, hives), seek urgent care.
How soon would heart-rate changes show up?
If pregabalin is going to affect heart rate, it often shows up after starting the medication or after dose increases, since blood levels change quickly during these times.
Who is more likely to notice this side effect?
You may be more likely to notice a faster heart beat if you:
- Start at a higher dose or increase the dose quickly
- Have underlying heart rhythm problems or cardiovascular disease
- Are also taking other medicines that affect heart rate
What should you do if your pulse increases after starting pregabalin?
- Check your pulse and note when it happens (at rest vs. after activity, and whether it’s linked to dosing).
- Contact your prescriber promptly if it’s persistent, worsening, or bothersome.
- Do not stop pregabalin suddenly without medical advice.
Are there alternatives if pregabalin affects your heart rate?
Options depend on why you’re taking pregabalin (neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, anxiety, etc.). Your clinician may adjust the dose, slow the titration, or switch to a different medication class based on your condition and risk factors.
Sources
No medication side-effect database or labeling details were provided with your question, so I can’t cite a specific authority page here. If you share your pregabalin brand/dose (and what you’re taking it for), I can look for the most relevant, specific source information.