Prednisone can cause an imbalance ofelectrolytesthat helps regulate heartbeats, including potassium, calcium, sodium, and magnesium.
People given large doses of prednisone or intravenous doses (delivered into a vein) are at greatest risk.
Severe cases have been known to causesudden death.
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It also explains when it is time to see a healthcare provider.
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Why Prednisone Is Prescribed
Prednisone is used to suppress theimmune systemand reduceinflammation.
This risk usually increases with higher doses of steroids.
confirm to speak with your healthcare team on strategies to help mitigate the risk of unintended side effects.
Side Effects Involving Heart Rate
Electrolytes are minerals in your blood that carry an electric charge.
Several of these electrolytesmost notablypotassium,sodium,calcium, andmagnesiumhelp regulate electrical impulses that make the heart beat.
Electrolyte imbalances are one of the possible causes of bradycardia.
The electrolyte most commonly linked to bradycardia is potassium.
Prednisone is known to cause potassium deficiency.
This can lead to hypokalemia and the onset of bradycardia.
Tachycardia
Tachycardia is an abnormally fast heart rate, generally faster than 100 BPM when resting.
Potassium and sodium are electrolytes that regulate how effectively the SA node works.
AFib is characterized by the rapid and irregular beating of the upper chambers of the heart.
AFib is oftenasymptomatic(without symptoms).
When AFib is symptomatic, heart palpitations are one of the most common symptoms.
But this isn’t always possible, particularly with chronic diseases like multiple sclerosis.
You may also be advised to reduce your dietary salt intake to avoid hypernatremia.
Who Is At Risk?
Although research has shown that bradycardia can affect anyone taking prednisone, some people are at greater risk.
This includes people with pre-existing heart disease orkidney disease.
In people given IV prednisone, the rate of infusion also plays a role.
This can range from mild to life-threatening.
People who are at risk of bradycardia or other heart rhythm problems should undergoheart monitoringbefore receiving prednisone.
