Can Lyrica (pregabalin) slow your heart rate?
Lyrica (pregabalin) can affect the cardiovascular system in some people, but a slowed heart rate (bradycardia) is not one of the most common side effects. Still, clinicians and patients do see heart-rate–related adverse effects reported in real-world use and labeling/safety information, so it’s possible.
What side effects point to a problem with heart rate?
If Lyrica is causing heart-rate changes, you may also notice symptoms such as dizziness, fainting (or feeling like you might), unusual fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort. Any of these symptoms—especially fainting, near-fainting, or chest pain—needs urgent medical evaluation.
Who might be more at risk of heart-rate changes on Lyrica?
Risk is higher if you:
- Already have a heart rhythm problem or conduction disease
- Take other medicines that can slow heart rate or affect heart rhythm
- Have other conditions that predispose you to low heart rate (for example, dehydration or electrolyte problems)
- Start or increase the dose recently
If you have known rhythm issues, it’s especially important to discuss dose changes with your prescriber.
What should you do if your pulse gets slow after starting Lyrica?
Check your pulse and write down the number and time of day. If you have symptoms (dizziness, fainting, chest pain, severe shortness of breath), seek emergency care. If you feel okay but your heart rate is repeatedly low, contact the prescribing clinician promptly to ask whether the dose should be adjusted or whether you need an ECG.
Could something else be causing the slow heart rate?
Yes. Many other factors can slow heart rate, including:
- Other medications (for example, beta-blockers, some calcium channel blockers, certain antiarrhythmics)
- Thyroid problems
- Electrolyte abnormalities
- Dehydration
- Illness or infections
Your clinician may need to sort out whether Lyrica is the trigger versus another cause.
If you tell me your dose of Lyrica, how long you’ve been taking it, your age, your resting heart rate before/after starting, and any other medications you take, I can help you think through how likely it is and what to ask your doctor.