Racing heart after stopping Propranolol
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Hello all,
About 9 months ago I was having a strong pulse sensation right above my sternum and i was prescribed 60mg of Propranolol (looking back i wish i never would have taken it / don't think i needed to take it as that was my only symptom) I just recently weaned off of this medication over the course of 12 days (as instructed by my dr.) and have been off of it for 17 days now. Ever since stopping, my heart rate has gone up to where it stays in the high 90's - over 100 for most of the day unless i am lying down. I contacted my cardiologist and they said that typically that would not occur for that long. My primary doctor said the same thing. However, I can't think of what else could be causing it and it just so happened to start after getting off of the Propranolol. I have been tracking my heart rate with my fitbit and my resting heart rate has gradually gone up since stopping. I also want to mention that i never had a problem with racing heart before starting the Propranolol in the first place.
I have had all the heart tests done (EKG, stress test, echocardiogram, 2-week holter monitor) all of which came back normal. My cardiologist just prescribed me Diltiazem 30mg immediate release to take as needed. I really don't want to be on another medication, especially because i think the reason i am having these symptoms is from stopping the Propranolol. I am unsure what i should do. Should i wait it out and see if my heart rate goes back down to a normal rate on its own or should I take the Diltiazem. Does anyone have experience taking this medication? I am only considering taking it because I don't know what racing heart (almost constantly) can do to my heart and if it can cause any damage longterm. Also, if this is happening as a result of stopping the Propranolol, how long will it take for my heart rate to slow down and return back to normal? Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you
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JerryR sab45
Posted
I have been on beta blockers for some 50 years and I love them. They slow your heart and reduce anxiety in the process. They also are prescribed for an irregular heart beat, palpitations, angina (heart pain), or to prevent a repeat heart attack and atrial fibrillation. Your pulse rate of 90 to 100 would tend to make you feel anxious. If you're having bad side effects, maybe you need a lower dose. I think the starting dose is 40 mg. twice a day. Good luck to you!