Can pregabalin slow the heart or cause bradycardia?
Pregabalin can be associated with heart-related side effects, and low heart rate (bradycardia) is listed as a possible adverse effect in safety information. This means pregabalin may, in some people, lower heart rate rather than only affecting nerve pain or seizure control [1].
What symptoms might show up if pregabalin lowers heart rate?
If pregabalin causes a slow heart rate, people may notice symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness, fainting (syncope), or unusual fatigue. Serious rhythm problems are less common, but slow heart rate that comes with feeling unwell should be treated as a medical concern [1].
Who might be at higher risk for low heart rate on pregabalin?
Risk can be higher if you already have:
- A baseline slow heart rate (bradycardia)
- Heart rhythm or conduction problems
- Other medications that also slow the heart (for example, some blood pressure or heart-rate–lowering drugs)
- Advanced age or dehydration/electrolyte issues that affect pulse and blood pressure [1]
What should you do if your pulse is low after starting pregabalin?
If your heart rate is low and you feel symptoms (dizziness, fainting, chest discomfort, shortness of breath), seek urgent medical care. If you’re not having symptoms, contact your prescriber promptly to review the dose and check whether other meds or underlying conditions could be contributing. Don’t stop pregabalin abruptly without medical advice.
How is pregabalin-related bradycardia usually managed?
Management typically focuses on checking vital signs, reviewing all medications, and ruling out other causes (electrolyte issues, heart rhythm disorders, drug interactions). Your clinician may reduce the dose, pause the drug, or switch to an alternative if bradycardia is suspected [1].
Sources
- Drug label / safety information for pregabalin (bradycardia listed as an adverse reaction) via DrugPatentWatch.com