Ask a doctor on the topic of Neurology

What level of heart rate is tolerable until methylphenidate is discontinued?

March 23, 2021 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Question to a psychiatrist / neurologist:

I (32, female, 158cm, 54kg) have been on Medikinet adult (20-20) for the first time for 3 months now and have benefited immensely, especially in terms of inner restlessness and impulse control.

I recently had my first follow-up ECG at the general practitioner's, and there have been no changes, everything is still good. Blood pressure is also good (110/70), but my heart rate was 97 during the check-up (I had smoked right before the appointment, climbed the stairs, and was called in "unfortunately" immediately). My appointment with the psychiatrist is not until next week, but I have been incredibly anxious since then about losing the medication.

At what point / at what level of heart rate would the medication be discontinued, or what is considered tolerable within the framework of weighing the pros and cons?

Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Hello,

I wouldn't worry at all, a fast heartbeat is not necessarily a contraindication for Medikinet. I would only consider discontinuing if the heart rate consistently exceeds 100 during a 24-hour measurement. It is important to combine this with an automatic long-term blood pressure measurement, as this will provide enough data. If the heart rate is consistently at 100 or 110 throughout the day, then it would be a cause for concern.

Wishing you all the best!

Warm regards, Dr. Gehring