Dr. Vivek S Narayan Pillai
Cardiology
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
Answered by
Medically reviewed by
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I have been suffering from panic attacks and anxiety for several years, and on top of that essential tremor affects my everyday life. A couple of weeks ago, my doctor prescribed Klonopin (Clonazepam) for me, but there are some things I am worried about after googling a bit. Does Klonopin increase the risk of QT prolongation or other serious heart problems? I just do not want to take any risk, because I have been suffering form PVCs every day for over a year. Sometimes I have also bradycardia and every now and then short burst of an accelerated heartbeat with fluttering sensation. They are still under investigation. I have had lots of ECGs, and at one my QT, QTc was 412, 447 at a heart rate of 71 bpm. And I would not like to make my QT any longer. I have also used Oxazepam. Is it a safer option when it comes to the risk of QT prolongation or can I continue taking Klonopin?
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Long term Clonazepam, as well as high dose clonazepam, puts you at a risk for developing acquired long QT, having said that a QTC of 447 msec is within the prescribed i.e < 460 msec limit for women. Oxazepam is safer but if you combine either of these with another QT prolonging drug, the QT may become dangerously prolonged, also avoid a low potassium blood level and diuretics (medications which promote urination). Your description of PVCs (premature ventricular contractions) leads me to suggest a Holter and ECG just to rule out any pause dependent arrhythmia. Do get an echo done to rule out structural heart disease.
Was this conversation helpful?
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Cardiology
Related Questions
Do I need a drug other than Clonazepam to control non-stop panic attacks?
What ayurvedic medicine controls heart diseases better?
Which anti-anxiety and insomnia medicine will not raise blood pressure and heart rate?
Mirap and Clonazepam prescribed for anxiety and depression, Is it fine to take?
Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease
Does my ECG show any abnormality?
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy
