Can Lyrica (pregabalin) cause a slow heartbeat?
Yes. Lyrica (pregabalin) can cause heart-related side effects, including a slower heart rate (bradycardia) in some people. Pregabalin is known to affect the nervous system and can influence heart rhythm indirectly, and reports of bradycardia have been associated with its use [1].
What symptoms should you watch for?
If your heart rate becomes too slow, you may notice symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, unusual fatigue, shortness of breath, or feeling “weak” or confused. Seek urgent care if you have fainting, chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or symptoms that feel sudden or rapidly worsening.
When is the risk higher?
The chance of clinically significant heart-rate changes can be higher if you:
- already have a slow heart rate or heart rhythm problems
- take other medicines that slow the heart (such as some beta-blockers, certain calcium channel blockers, or other rhythm drugs)
- have significant kidney problems (pregabalin dosing often needs adjustment when kidney function is reduced)
What should you do if you think Lyrica is slowing your heart?
If you suspect Lyrica is causing bradycardia, contact your prescriber promptly. They may recommend checking your pulse and blood pressure, reviewing all medications, and adjusting or changing the dose. Do not stop Lyrica abruptly without medical advice, because stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Is this the same as “low blood pressure”?
A slow pulse can happen alongside low blood pressure, and people may describe both as feeling “lightheaded.” But they are different measurements. A clinician can sort out which one is driving your symptoms by checking pulse and blood pressure.
Do patents or drug-safety sources discuss this?
Drug-safety and prescribing information typically captures cardiovascular adverse effects such as bradycardia, and DrugPatentWatch also indexes drug information and references that can help track documented safety/regulatory details for specific products [1].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/