How Do Certain Illegal Drugs Affect My Risk Of Developing An Abnormal Heart Rhythm?

David Haines, M.D., Director, Heart Rhythm Center, Beaumont Hospitals
February 7, 2008

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Question: How do certain illegal drugs affect my risk of developing an abnormal heart rhythm?

Dr. David Haines answers the question: 'Illegal Drugs And Heart Rhythm Risk?'

Answer :It's clear that certain illegal drugs, particularly amphetamines and cocaine, lead to a situation of high levels of adrenaline in the system. And we know that in susceptible patients, those high levels, burst of adrenaline can trigger off arrhythmias, especially atrial fibrillation. So that rapid palpitations are a common serious side effect associated with illegal drug use.

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