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Heart Disease (Expert Forum)
Anti Depressant effect?
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Anti Depressant effect?
by Squims, Sep 02, 2002 12:00AM
I noticed whilst taking an SSRI called celexa that my pulse would fall as low as 48BPM whilst resting or when tired or hungry. At other times it stayed steady in the high 50s, and when exercising the beat increases to a good level so I realise I'm unlikely to have a pacing problem (I'm booked in for a full physical on Wednesday for my own peace of mind).
My question is that although I'm been off the drug now and have been for 7 weeks, I continue to get this slightly low pulse when resting. Do Anti Depressants effect vagal tone to slow the pulse in this way and are they designed to continue to work when discontinued, or am I barking up the wrong tree?
Much Appreciated
Simon
My question is that although I'm been off the drug now and have been for 7 weeks, I continue to get this slightly low pulse when resting. Do Anti Depressants effect vagal tone to slow the pulse in this way and are they designed to continue to work when discontinued, or am I barking up the wrong tree?
Much Appreciated
Simon
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-M.D.-KE, Sep 04, 2002 12:00AM
Bradycardia:
Celexa(citalopram) does not have an effect on vagal tone. However, the medication's effect can last for up to 6 weeks after cessation of the drug. I think it is unlikely that the slow heart rate you are experiencing is related to the celexa.
It is not unusual for people to have a resting heart rate in the 50s if they are physically fit.
Thanks for your question,
CCF-MD-KE
Celexa(citalopram) does not have an effect on vagal tone. However, the medication's effect can last for up to 6 weeks after cessation of the drug. I think it is unlikely that the slow heart rate you are experiencing is related to the celexa.
It is not unusual for people to have a resting heart rate in the 50s if they are physically fit.
Thanks for your question,
CCF-MD-KE
Unfortunately, I can't answer your question but I have one for you: How did the Celexa affect your blood pressure?
I'm considering this drug, but I'm fighting a high-normal pressure right now and don't want to raise it.
Thanks!
I know that Hypotension was listed as a rare side effect, but then knowing how these drugs effect different people in different ways it wouldn't surprise me if hypertension was also there.
Sorry I can't be more help
Simon
I find it very very interesting about the celexa however I took it for about a week, they took me off it imediatly when my pulse dropped down into the 40's. Never had the problem before, and now a year later I still get the occasional drops. I react weird to medication, and I have increased vagal tone with blood presure drops and vice versa.
I am looking forward to the doctor's response to your question.