Does Buscopan Cause Heart Rhythm Disorders? the Risks

Can Buscopan cause arrhythmia?

Since the beginning of this year, I experienced significant side effects after taking a single dose of Buscopan for another issue.
I had a rapid heartbeat, insomnia, and a feeling of nausea, which made it difficult to eat.
After a day, I felt somewhat better, but I was hesitant to take any medication again.
A couple of weeks later, I suddenly experienced similar symptoms, but this time I also had cold sweats and felt a bit chilly, even though the temperature was warm.
The next day, I consulted a doctor and took Inderal, which helped.

About two to three weeks later, the armrest of my chair broke, and without support for my left arm, I began to frequently feel sudden, unusual heartbeats.
I didn't see a doctor this time, and it took about a week for the symptoms to improve.
Around May, I started to frequently feel unusual heartbeats again.
I began eating bananas daily, which provided some relief, but I still occasionally experienced the symptoms.
During better periods, I stopped eating bananas, and after a week, the unusual heartbeats returned.
I'm wondering if this is related to the Buscopan I took earlier this year.

Zhe, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/17

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, of course, it is unrelated to the efficacy of the medication; it is not strong enough to last for six months.
Overall, it is a symptom of autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2024/07/17

More Info

Buscopan, known generically as hyoscine butylbromide, is an antispasmodic medication commonly used to relieve cramps in the stomach, intestines, and bladder. While it is generally well-tolerated, there are potential side effects, including those affecting heart rhythm. Understanding the relationship between Buscopan and heart rhythm disorders is essential, especially for individuals who may have pre-existing conditions or are sensitive to medications.

Mechanism of Action and Side Effects
Buscopan works by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in muscle contraction and various bodily functions. By inhibiting acetylcholine, Buscopan relaxes smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract and other areas. However, this anticholinergic effect can also influence the heart.
Some common side effects of Buscopan include dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, and constipation. More serious side effects can occur, including tachycardia (rapid heart rate), palpitations, and other heart rhythm disturbances. These effects are particularly concerning for individuals with a history of heart problems or those taking other medications that may affect heart rhythm.

Your Experience with Buscopan
From your description, it seems that after taking Buscopan, you experienced a rapid heartbeat, nausea, and difficulty sleeping. These symptoms can indeed be associated with the anticholinergic effects of the medication. The subsequent episodes of feeling your heart racing or having "weird" heartbeats could be related to the initial reaction to Buscopan, especially if you have a heightened sensitivity to medications or anxiety about your health.

The cold sweats and feelings of coldness you experienced could also be manifestations of anxiety or panic attacks, which can occur in conjunction with heart rhythm disturbances. It's important to note that anxiety can exacerbate the perception of heart symptoms, leading to a cycle of worry and physical symptoms.

Inderal and Its Role
Inderal (propranolol) is a beta-blocker that is often prescribed to manage symptoms of anxiety, including palpitations and rapid heart rate. It works by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart, thereby reducing heart rate and blood pressure. Your experience of feeling better after taking Inderal suggests that your symptoms may have a significant anxiety component, which is common in individuals who have had distressing experiences related to their heart.

Connection Between Buscopan and Your Symptoms
While it is plausible that Buscopan could have contributed to your initial symptoms, it is also essential to consider the role of anxiety and how it can manifest physically. The timing of your symptoms, particularly the recurrence after stressful events (like the incident with the broken chair), indicates that psychological factors may be at play.

Recommendations
1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: It is crucial to discuss your experiences with your doctor, particularly regarding the relationship between Buscopan and your heart symptoms. They may consider alternative treatments for your condition that do not carry the same risk of side effects.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the best course of action.

3. Consider Psychological Support: If anxiety is a significant factor in your symptoms, consider speaking with a mental health professional. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can help manage anxiety and its physical manifestations.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or regular exercise, which can help mitigate anxiety and improve overall heart health.

In conclusion, while Buscopan can potentially cause heart rhythm disturbances, your symptoms may also be influenced by anxiety and stress. A comprehensive approach that includes medical evaluation, symptom monitoring, and psychological support may provide the best outcomes for your health.

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