Zoloft and palpitations

[1989runs2u]

Dear Doctor,

I am a 37-year-old man who has suffered from PACs/PVCs for about 15 years.  All tests for rhythm and/or structural abnormalities have been conducted with good results.  I am a runner and mainly get PACs/PVCs during the first few minutes of my runs-- often they are somewhat painful.  Also, for the last two years, my sleep has been disrupted by palpitations that are consistent with nocturnal panic.  I have grown very anxious/depressed about my condition (in concert with some other life challenges) and, as a result, my doctor has prescribed 50mg Zoloft.  As a PAC/PVC sufferer, am I at increased risk for a cardiac event by taking Zoloft?   Thanks--

HMM

[crystalhanzelka]

I will not take Zoloft because it is on the list for Torsades.  But that is if you have Long Qt I THINK!  I am a hypo about meds and just opted not to take it.

[Wisconsin2007]

Unfortunately, you probably won't get any doctors responding in this portion of the forum, but you will, however, hear from people with decades of PVC/PAC and medication experience, along with some nurses versed in treatment from both the professional and patient side of the equation.

But here's an article you might find of interest:  http://www.medhelp.org/forums/cardio/archive/5212.html

The gist of it is, if you consider a PVC or PAC a "cardiac event", then possibly.  But if you're wondering if taking the Zoloft is going to precipitate a life-threatening episode of arrhythmia, it appears the answer is no.  But certainly, read the article for yourself.  That one WAS answered by a doctor.

In the meantime, do what you can to relieve any stressors you have at the moment.