Is Resting Pulse Rate Of 48 A Cause For Concern?

Posted on Tue, 29 Aug 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 29 Aug 2017 Answered on

Fri, 15 Sep 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : My resting pulse is 48. Used to be 58-60. Just started on new meds, ssri and xanax. Also take antenolol and have taken for 25 years. BP is 130/70

Answered by Dr. Dr Sameer Maheshwari (32 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You should stop Atenolol

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Welcome.
This is Dr Sameer, cardiologist.
As you already have a low pulse rate and beta blocker (Atenolol) is now not among the initial anti hypertensive drug, I will recommend you to stop Atenolol & switch to some other drug.
You can continue Xanax & other SSRI.
Thanks & take care

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. Dr Sameer Maheshwari (9 hours later)

Doc, I only take 25mg per day. I'm going to try 25mg every other day. I have taken atenolol for 30 years to help with panic and anxiety. It has been a great drug for me. My BP is 130/70

Answered by Dr. Dr Sameer Maheshwari (12 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes you can do it every alternate day

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Welcome back.
For Anxiety & panic we generally give Propranolol. But if you feel good with Atenolol than you can continue taking it. But as your pulse has become low(<50), you can switch to alternate day dosing.
Atenolol 25mg has very mild effect on bp. So I'll recommend you to monitor your bp & pulse rate at least once daily.
If their is anything else I can help you with, I'll be more than happy.
Thanks & take care

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana