Re: ritalin and SVT

Posted By CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on September 11, 1998 at 09:02:26:

In Reply to: ritalin and SVT posted by joyce on September 11, 1998 at 08:01:03:







: : When you say the ritalin can cause SVT do you mean it can create it or aggravate
the existing condition?  I've had SVT episodes for seven years but only have been taking ritalin
for one year.   Also , what about weight gain, being out of shape.  I find that working out is
very uncomfortable and I avoid it more and more as It's embarrassing to have
heart rate increase and exhaust me so quickly.   If I get in shape and lose weight will it manage the SVT?
Thanks again...Joyce
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Dear Joyce
Ritalin can aggravate SVTs in people that already have a tendency to have them. It can also cause SVTs in people that have never had them before.
Whether weight loss will help depends on the type of SVT. Regardless, weight loss will help improve your overall cardiovascular health. Everyone's heart rate increases with exercise; this increase is more dramatic in people that are overweight and out of shape - this is, however, not an SVT. If you are truly having real SVTs that interfere with exercise, you may need specific treatment of the SVT.
I hope this is useful. Feel free to write back. I wish you the best of luck.
If you would like to set up an appointment with one of our cardiologists here at the Cleveland Clinic please feel free to call 1-800-CCF-CARE.
Information provided in the Heart Forum is intended for general medical informational purposes only. Actual diagnosis and treatment of any particular medical condition can only be made by your physician(s).