Ribavirin and heart rate

[Mattsmom218]

My resting heart rate is normally around 80. I've been on Riba now for 2 weeks and my resting heart rate has gone up to 116. During the day it gets up to the 120s. I'm very concerned about this. Anyone else had this happen to them?

[dontworry_behappy1]

Ribavirin may cause anemia (condition in which there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells) that can worsen any heart problems you have and can cause you to have a heart attack that can be life-threatening. Tell your doctor if you have ever had a heart attack and if you have or have ever had high blood pressure, breathing problems, any condition that affects your blood such as sickle cell anemia (inherited condition in which the red blood cells are abnormally shaped and cannot bring oxygen to all parts of the body) or thalassemia (Mediterranean anemia; a condition in which the red blood cells do not contain enough of the substance needed to carry oxygen), bleeding in the stomach or intestines, or heart disease. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately: excessive tiredness, pale skin, headache, dizziness, confusion, fast heartbeat, weakness, shortness of breath, or chest pain.

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a605018.html

[AWorriedMom]

That is a big drop in just 2 weeks and I bet that is why you are feeling the way you do. However, the 11.4 should not be a problem and I agree that close monitoring is the thing to do for now. The normal resting heart rate is 60-100 so even at your worst, it isn't awful. Hopefully things will settle down now that you know the PA knows and is not upset by it. So, relax and feel good and concentrate on getting rid of that darn virus.

[Ekkiemom]

Hi there, your hemo isn't bad, they only give you Procrit if you are in the 9s, what you probably need is a Riba adjustment. After that your body will adjust to less oxygen which is fine, don't worry.  I had to have an adjustment <200mgs and I was so much better after that. Hepa will be keeping eye on it but still needs to be brought to his attention.
Best of luck you
Peac
Deb

[Mattsmom218]

Hello all,

Well today I got my 2 week blood work results. Hemoglobin down to 11.4 and it normally runs14 so I am definitely feeling the effects now. Platelets are normal but WBC 11.2 because I'm fighting a little something. I did let my PA know today about the heart rate and she asked if I was having anxiety as that will raise the HR. I told her I didn't think so. I'll just continue to monitor my HR. I just took it with a blood pressure machine and it was 95. I had a normal EKG in October. Now waiting until Feb 3rd when I'll have my 4 week blood work which will include the liver values. Praying that there is no virus....and we wait.....thank you all for your comments. I appreciate it!!

[AWorriedMom]

It is possible that you are anemic from the ribavirin. That puts a strain on the heart as it must pump harder to get oxygen to your organs. In fact it is why ribavirin is contraindicated in people with chronic cardiac problems. You need to let your doctor know immediately. If you are anemic they may lower your dosage or give you a medication to raise your hemoglobin. Good lucka and I hope you feel better soon.

[dontworry_behappy1]

You need to see your doctor.  Your heart rate is to high.   There is medication for this.   Your resting heart rate shouldn't be 116.  Your heart rate does go up and down all day.   But your resting heart rate is important and shouldn't be over 100.  

[Livelife777]

Unfortunately I noticed that particular problem as well while on the Riba.  Seems to me it was around week 3-4 when it became bothersome then subsided only to return the last few weeks of a 12 week protocol.
I do think its something you ought to relay to your Dr.  It's likely the effect of the meds, as I've heard of this complaint on Tx before.  Sometimes tho we blame our meds for every little nuance,  when in fact it could be unrelated to our Tx.
Better to safe then sorry.
Good Luck
.......Kim