Effect of Stimulants on Heart Rate

Stimulants are substances that, among other things, cause an increased heart rate. When stimulants are abused, the resultant heart rate increase can be dangerous or even fatal. Some stimulants are prescribed for various medical conditions and can be administered in some cases of cardiac arrest to restart the heartbeat; however, stimulants may also cause heart trauma such as cardiac arrest.

Definition

• Stimulants are psychoactive substances that create an effect by increasing levels of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that regulates pleasure, movement and attention. Common legal drugs such as caffeine and nicotine are stimulants, as are a variety of over-the-counter medications. Other stimulants are controlled substances available by prescription for the treatment of obesity, narcolepsy and attention deficit disorder. Drugs of abuse, such as cocaine and methamphetamine, are stimulants as well.

Heart Rate

• Stimulants increase blood pressure and heart rate. They also increase respiration, body temperature and mental activity. Stimulants constrict blood vessels and increase blood glucose levels. They can diminish the appetite and increase alertness, energy and wakefulness.

Side Effects

• Stimulants, and particularly those that are drugs of abuse, such as cocaine and methamphetamine, can produce negative side effects. A 1997 study by the National Addiction Centre in London reported that anxiety, depression, paranoia, panic attacks and sleep disturbances can be attributed to stimulant abuse.

Danger

• At high doses, and for those with pre-existing heart conditions, stimulants can raise the heart rate to a dangerous level, producing heart attacks, heart failure, seizures and strokes. The combined use of stimulants and certain over-the-counter decongestants can raise the blood pressure to an unhealthy degree and cause an irregular heartbeat.

Sudden Death

• A 2009 study funded by the United States Food and Drug Administration and the National Institute of Mental Health cites a link between the use of stimulant medications for the treatment attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), such as Adderall, Dexedrine and Ritalin, and sudden cardiac death in children. Authors of the study claim that while the risk does exist, it is the same level of risk as dying as a passenger in an auto accident. The study asserts that the sudden cardiac deaths could possibly be attributed to a combination of stimulant medications and undiagnosed heart conditions.