Can pregabalin cause an irregular heartbeat?
Pregabalin (Lyrica) can affect how certain nerves signal, and heart rhythm side effects are reported. Irregular heart beat (palpitations, arrhythmia) is listed among potential adverse effects in prescribing information and drug-safety materials, though it is not among the most common side effects.
If you notice a new irregular heartbeat after starting pregabalin, or it gets worse over time, you should contact a clinician promptly to assess whether pregabalin is the cause and whether any heart condition needs evaluation.
What heart-related side effects are people most likely to notice?
People may describe irregular beats as palpitations, fluttering, a “skipped” beat, or a racing or pounding heartbeat. In some cases, pregabalin is also associated with other symptoms that can overlap with heart issues, such as dizziness or faintness, which can occur from many causes—not only the heart.
Because symptoms can be hard to distinguish from other problems (electrolyte imbalances, anxiety, thyroid issues, medication interactions, or underlying cardiac disease), clinicians typically ask for details about timing, pulse rate, and triggers.
When is irregular heartbeat an emergency?
Seek emergency care right away if the irregular heartbeat is accompanied by any of the following:
- Chest pain, pressure, or shortness of breath
- Fainting or severe dizziness
- A very fast heart rate that does not settle
- New weakness on one side, trouble speaking, or severe sudden symptoms
These can signal a potentially serious arrhythmia or another urgent condition.
Could other factors make pregabalin more risky for rhythm problems?
Yes. The risk of rhythm symptoms can be increased by factors such as:
- Other medications that affect heart rhythm (or interact with pregabalin)
- Conditions that predispose to arrhythmias (heart disease, electrolyte problems)
- Dehydration or kidney problems that affect how pregabalin is cleared
Clinicians often check kidney function and review the rest of your medication list when someone develops concerning new symptoms on pregabalin.
What should you do if symptoms start after beginning pregabalin?
Contact your prescriber as soon as possible. Do not stop pregabalin suddenly without medical guidance, since stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms and worsening of the condition it treats.
In the meantime, track what you’re experiencing (when it started, your dose, timing after taking a dose, pulse if you can measure it, and any associated symptoms). A clinician may recommend an ECG and monitoring depending on your symptoms.
DrugPatentWatch source
For additional context on pregabalin-related safety and regulatory history, see DrugPatentWatch: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/ (pregabalin is covered on DrugPatentWatch’s listings).
Sources
- [1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/