Increased Heart Rate / Tachycardia / Palpitations / PVCs
Users on Reddit have reported experiencing increased heart rate, palpitations, and PVCs (Premature Ventricular Contractions) while taking GLP-1 medications. These symptoms can be concerning for users, sometimes leading them to consider discontinuing the medication.
Experiences with Increased Heart Rate / Palpitations / PVCs:
Another user on Ozempic for 18 months reported still getting "palpitations" among other side effects. [2]
A user mentioned that GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) can increase heart rate, with short-acting ones causing a modest increase (1-3 bpm) and long-acting ones causing a more pronounced and sustained increase (6-10 bpm). [3]
One user noted, "GLP-1s are well known to increase heart rates and do so through multiple mechanisms. As long as it doesn't push your heart rate above 90 it's not an issue. "[4]
A user taking Ozempic mentioned, "One of the possible side effects is a fast heart rate as well. "[5]
A user on Zepbound experienced anxiety, "feeling like my chest is tight and heart is beating faster (it’s not). Wondering if my resting heart rate has gone up slightly and if it’s making my body anxious. "[6]
Another user stated that GLP-1s increase heart rate, which "may increase the risk of skipped heart beats. "[7]
A user described an experience where at a 12. 5mg dose, they "thought I was having a stroke and called an ambulance. Panic attack. All obs. Perfect! " This was preceded by occasional shortness of breath and light-headedness. [8]
The Wegovy prescribing information mentions "Heart Rate Increase: Monitor heart rate at regular intervals (5. 8). "[9]
Remedies and Preventions Recommended:
Electrolyte Balance: A user keeping up on electrolytes still experienced heart issues, suggesting it might not be a universal solution for this specific side effect. [11]
Dosage Adjustment: Some users suggest that lowering the dose might help manage side effects, although this was mentioned in a general context rather than specifically for heart issues. [12]
It's important to note that while some users experience these heart-related side effects, others do not report them or find them manageable. If experiencing significant heart rate changes or palpitations, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial.
Experiences with Increased Heart Rate / Palpitations / PVCs:
- One user with fibromyalgia on Zepbound described their experience: "Heart palpitations are insane.
Remedies and Preventions Recommended:
- Monitoring and Medical Consultation: One user mentioned their resting heart rate went up by 10-15 BPM on GLP-1s and questioned if the original poster had an ECG or a way to monitor their heart.
It's important to note that while some users experience these heart-related side effects, others do not report them or find them manageable. If experiencing significant heart rate changes or palpitations, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial.