From the Research
For individuals with SVT (Supraventricular Tachycardia) syndrome who need anxiety medications, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline (Zoloft) or escitalopram (Lexapro) are generally considered safer options, as supported by the most recent study 1. When considering anxiety medications for patients with SVT syndrome, it's essential to prioritize those that do not exacerbate heart rhythm problems.
- SSRIs such as sertraline or escitalopram can be taken daily at doses starting at 25-50mg for sertraline or 5-10mg for escitalopram.
- For as-needed (PRN) anxiety relief, buspirone (BuSpar) at 5-10mg as needed is often preferred over benzodiazepines, due to its lower risk of dependency and less impact on heart rhythm.
- If a benzodiazepine is necessary, low-dose lorazepam (Ativan) at 0.5mg may be used cautiously under close medical supervision, as it has a shorter half-life and is less likely to accumulate and cause adverse effects.
- Beta-blockers like propranolol at low doses (10-20mg) can sometimes help with both anxiety symptoms and SVT episodes, but their use should be carefully monitored due to potential effects on heart rate and blood pressure. It's crucial to have any anxiety medication carefully selected and monitored by a cardiologist and psychiatrist working together, as some medications can potentially worsen SVT symptoms or interact with heart medications, as noted in 2 and 3. Always report any palpitations, dizziness, or other cardiac symptoms that occur after taking anxiety medication, to ensure prompt adjustment of the treatment plan and minimize risks to morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.