Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular, often rapid heart rhythm that can lead to serious complications if untreated. While many drugs manage underlying conditions, some common medications can inadvertently precipitate or worsen AFib. Here’s what to know—and how to minimize your risk.
Medications Linked To Causing Atrial Fibrillation!
1. Diuretics
Common Examples: Furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide
Why It Matters: These “water pills” can deplete potassium and magnesium—electrolytes crucial for stabilizing your heart’s electrical impulses. Low levels can provoke AFib episodes.
2. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Common Examples: Ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve)
Why It Matters: NSAIDs may raise blood pressure, worsen heart failure, and directly increase AFib risk—especially when combined with blood thinners.
3. Decongestants
Common Examples: Pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine
Why It Matters: These stimulants constrict blood vessels and boost your heart rate, potentially triggering an AFib episode in sensitive individuals.
4. Thyroid Hormones
Common Examples: Levothyroxine (Synthroid) at high doses
Why It Matters: Excess thyroid hormone accelerates metabolism and heart rate. Over-replacement can lead to hyperthyroidism—and a higher likelihood of AFib.
5. Stimulant Medications
Common Examples: ADHD treatments (amphetamines, methylphenidate)
Why It Matters: By increasing sympathetic (“fight or flight”) activity, stimulants can raise heart rate and provoke arrhythmias, including AFib.
6. Antidepressants
Common Examples: Tricyclics (amitriptyline), certain SSRIs in high doses
Why It Matters: Some can affect cardiac conduction or interact with other heart medications—raising AFib risk, especially in older adults.
7. Corticosteroids
Common Examples: Prednisone, methylprednisolone
Why It Matters: Steroids can disrupt electrolyte balance and heighten sympathetic tone, occasionally leading to palpitations or new-onset AFib.
8. Antiarrhythmic Drugs
Common Examples: Flecainide, propafenone, amiodarone
Why It Matters: Paradoxically, some agents used to treat AFib can worsen it—by altering atrial conduction or causing proarrhythmic effects in certain heart conditions.
American College of Cardiology
9. Bisphosphonates
Common Examples: Alendronate, zoledronic acid
Why It Matters: Prescribed for osteoporosis, these drugs may release inflammatory cytokines that shorten the atrial refractory period and trigger AFib.
10. Chemotherapy Agents
Common Examples: Anthracyclines (doxorubicin), certain immuno-modulators
Why It Matters: Many cancer treatments can damage heart muscle or alter conduction pathways—raising the risk of AFib and other arrhythmias.