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Pharmacy- Drug Information  

Drugs That Slow the Heart
(Antidysrhythmic Drugs)

The Generic (common) Name of the drug is listed first, followed by a specific Product (brand) Name, which is an example of that generic drug. To learn more about an individual drug, click on its Generic Name or Product Name.

 
Examples:
 
Generic Name Marketer Example Product Name
Adenosine Fujisawa Healthcare Adenocard
Diltiazem Aventis Pharmaceuticals Cardizem
Esmolol Baxter Brevibloc
Digoxin Glaxo Wellcome Inc. Lanoxin
Propranolol American Home Products Inderal


 
What are antidysrhythmic drugs that slow the heart?
Under certain circumstances, the heart rate or blood pressure may increase dramatically with possible serious consequences. Most of these drugs decrease the heart rate and may lower blood pressure.

 
Why are they given?
The doctor prescribes this type of drug when the patient's heart rate is too fast or blood pressure is too high. By decreasing the heart rate or blood pressure, these drugs may diminish the potential harm to the heart or the rest of the body.

 
How long are they used?
Sometimes, they are only used once. Under certain circumstances, they may be used indefinitely.

 
Do they have side effects?
These drugs do have side effects ranging from minor to serious. Common side effects include a slow heart rate, an upset stomach, and occasionally shortness of breath.
 


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