Bradycardia

  About 1 1/2 weeks ago I read that Black Cohosh can be beneficial to women that are premenopausal.  I'm 45 and I decided to try it.  Since I started taking it I've noticed extreme fatigue, and it feels like my heart is beating irregularly sometimes.  I've always had low blood pressure.  Is it possible that the BlackCohosh is causing these symptoms, and could it be harmful for me to continue to take it?  Thank you.

[CCF Cardio MD - MTR]

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Dear Caren, thank you for your question.  I don't know what Black Cohosh is, so could you write back to tell me about it.  I assume it's an herbal remedy.  However, if you are experiencing the symptoms you mention, then I suggest that you stop taking Black Cohosh and speak to your physician regarding other treatment for premenopause.  
I hope you find this information useful.  Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies. Please feel free to write back with additional questions.
If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter.   The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.