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Can Zoloft Be Taken With Medicine For Supraventricular Tachycardia?

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Posted on Mon, 1 Sep 2014
Question: Hello, I am asking a question on behalf of my twin sister who doesn't know I am writing and doesn't think she needs help. She takes medication for supraventricular tachycardia and insists that there are no drugs available that she can safely take to correct her serotonin levels. We have a strong genetic background of mental health disorders. I take Zoloft for depression, as does my younger sister and my mother, with wonderful results. My twin, who obsesses constantly, takes offense at everything, and is temperamental beyond words thinks she did not inherit any genetic tendencies (despite having an identical twin who did). We are 61 years old now and my twin has alienated everyone in the family. She tells me she never feels happy but doesn't think that there could be a genetic connection to her misery. I have asked and asked her to please give medication a try but she says her heart medication precludes taking anything. I wish I knew the name of her medication. I just want her to live a happy and normal life. She has always been oppositional and difficult to get along with, even as a child. Even then she obsessed terribly, would never let anything go, and would not obey our parents about dropping issues. Thank you so much for letting me know if a person with supraventricular tachycardia (brought on by stress according to her cardiologist) could take something to correct serotonin levels in the brain.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (11 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Following suggestions to your queries...

Detailed Answer:
Hi there my dear,

I am sorry for the situation you twin sister is in. I am happy that you are so comprehensive to understand your current health and mental situation perfectly and to collaborate with your doctor.

As you know, different people do have different personality which will determine their social relationships. So, nothing to blame to your sister, and I highly appreciate your good understanding and your willing to help your twin. May God recompenses what you are doing for her.

Now, please bare in mind that heart rhythm problems (tachycardia as in case of your sister) are often associated with neurological issues. If the neurological problems will be correctly treated, subsequently, tachycardia will be improved too.

Yes, you are right, serotonin re-uptake inhibitors are the drugs of choice in order to correct her serotonin levels in the brain. The most common side effects associated with their use include tachycardia and hypotension. That's why patients are scheduled for regular follow ups to catch the side effects in time.

With regards to dosage, should evaluate her heart problems first and then, can correct the dose accordingly. You can send her test reports to me (cardiac tests or neurological exams), so I can evaluate them myself for further assistance.

Hope it was of help! All the best!
Dr.Benard
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Benard Shehu (3 hours later)
Thank you so much, Dr. Benard. This helps greatly. It never occurred to me that my twin's heart rhythm problems could be associated with her neurological issue and if treated, the tachycardia will improve as well. That is an eye-opener. I will pass this along to my sister. The whole family (especially her husband and children) are hoping that she will talk with her cardiologist. If she actually pursues medication and I would like to update you, how do I reach you? I know there are many doctors on the network. Thanks! God bless
doctor
Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (11 hours later)
Brief Answer:
You can contact me with a direct query...

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you!

It's nice to hear that my advise was somehow helpful.

In the future you can contact me with a direct query (at this site).

I wish you and your family all the best!

Dr. Benard Shehu
Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
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Answered by
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Dr. Benard Shehu

Cardiologist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 2257 Questions

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Can Zoloft Be Taken With Medicine For Supraventricular Tachycardia?

Brief Answer: Following suggestions to your queries... Detailed Answer: Hi there my dear, I am sorry for the situation you twin sister is in. I am happy that you are so comprehensive to understand your current health and mental situation perfectly and to collaborate with your doctor. As you know, different people do have different personality which will determine their social relationships. So, nothing to blame to your sister, and I highly appreciate your good understanding and your willing to help your twin. May God recompenses what you are doing for her. Now, please bare in mind that heart rhythm problems (tachycardia as in case of your sister) are often associated with neurological issues. If the neurological problems will be correctly treated, subsequently, tachycardia will be improved too. Yes, you are right, serotonin re-uptake inhibitors are the drugs of choice in order to correct her serotonin levels in the brain. The most common side effects associated with their use include tachycardia and hypotension. That's why patients are scheduled for regular follow ups to catch the side effects in time. With regards to dosage, should evaluate her heart problems first and then, can correct the dose accordingly. You can send her test reports to me (cardiac tests or neurological exams), so I can evaluate them myself for further assistance. Hope it was of help! All the best! Dr.Benard