Over The Counter Medicine To Lower Heart Rate
Having a high heart rate can be concerning, especially if you're experiencing symptoms like dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain. While there are prescription medications available to help lower heart rate, there are also over-the-counter options that can be effective. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best over-the-counter medicines to lower heart rate.
What Causes High Heart Rate?
Before we dive into the over-the-counter options to lower heart rate, let's first understand what causes a high heart rate. A high heart rate, or tachycardia, is defined as a heart rate above 100 beats per minute (bpm). There are a number of factors that can cause an increase in heart rate, including:
- Stress or anxiety
- Caffeine or nicotine
- Dehydration
- Medications
- Medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism or anemia
If you're experiencing a high heart rate, it's important to identify and address the underlying cause. In addition to over-the-counter medications, lifestyle changes such as reducing stress and staying hydrated can also help lower heart rate.
Over The Counter Medicines To Lower Heart Rate
There are a few different types of over-the-counter medications that can help lower heart rate:
Magnesium
Magnesium is an important mineral that plays a role in many bodily functions, including regulating heart rate. Low levels of magnesium can lead to an irregular heartbeat, so taking magnesium supplements may help lower heart rate in some cases. The recommended daily intake of magnesium is 400-420mg for men and 310-320mg for women.
Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channel blockers are a type of medication that can help lower heart rate by relaxing the blood vessels and reducing the workload on the heart. While calcium channel blockers are typically available by prescription only, there are some over-the-counter options that contain small doses of calcium channel-blocking agents.
Hawthorn
Hawthorn is a natural supplement that has been used for centuries to support heart health. It contains compounds that can help improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure, which can in turn help lower heart rate. Hawthorn is available in supplement form and can be found at most health food stores.
When To See A Doctor
If you're experiencing a high heart rate, it's important to talk to your doctor to identify the underlying cause and determine the best course of treatment. While over-the-counter medications can be effective in some cases, they may not be appropriate for everyone. Your doctor can help you determine the best approach based on your individual needs and medical history.
The Bottom Line
A high heart rate can be concerning, but there are over-the-counter options available to help lower heart rate. Magnesium supplements, calcium channel blockers, and hawthorn supplements can all be effective in some cases. However, it's important to talk to your doctor before starting any new medication or supplement, as they may not be appropriate for everyone.