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Can an anxiolytic drug cause a decrease in heart rate?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 49-year-old male with a weight of 220 pounds and a height of 5 feet 9 inches. I regularly exercise with cardio; however, I carry a little extra weight. I suffer from anxiety and am currently taking Inderal, Lyrica, and Prozac. Over the past two weeks, I have noticed that my resting heart rate, as measured by my smartwatch, is around 48 bpm. Traditionally, it has been around 58 bpm. Other than anxiety, I do not have any symptoms. What could be the causes of this, and is it a cause for concern?

Please help.

Answered by Dr. Isaac Gana

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concerns, do not worry you will be fine.

The Inderal (Propranolol) you are taking is what is reducing your heart rate. A heart rate of 48 bpm to 58 bpm is not problematic as long as you are not experiencing symptoms like fainting or shortness of breath. If you are not experiencing any symptoms, you should be fine. I advise you to continue monitoring your pulse to ensure your heart rate does not drop dangerously low. For now, it is not a cause for concern.

Kind regards.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

I have been taking Inderal at the same dose for 15 years, and I am sure it has contributed to reducing my heart rate to some extent. However, why would this drug suddenly cause a reduction in my heart rate over the past two weeks? I was lying on the couch, and my heart rate was 47 bpm, which had never been that low before.

Please advise.

Answered by Dr. Isaac Gana

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The fact that you are experiencing a reduced heart rate after 15 years of taking Inderal does not mean it is not the cause. In some cases, side effects from medications can occur after prolonged use, especially as you age. Additionally, your regular cardio exercises may also contribute to lowering your heart rate. As long as you do not experience symptoms such as dizziness or shortness of breath, I can assure you that you are fine and do not require any further investigation.

Best regards.

Answered byDr. Isaac Gana

Medically reviewed byDr. Divya Banu M

Published At March 9, 2020
Reviewed AtJanuary 23, 2025

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