Sertraline and slow heart rate?

[lifeofbrian]

Is this a side effect? My heart resting heart rate is normally in the 70's, today it's 57. Been on Sert for 4 days.

[panic_down_under]

Is this a side effect? My heart resting heart rate is normally in the 70's, today it's 57. Been on Sert for 4 days.

Serotonin is not just a brain neurotransmitter. It has many functions in the body, including in setting blood vessel tone, constriction and dilation. Serotonergic antidepressants can affect this, mostly causing arteries to dilate more than usual. They are also mild anticoagulants. Together these properties tend to reduce the load on the heart a little so these meds are generally a positive for cardiovascular health. SSRIs are often prescribed to heart attack survivors as many succumb to depression afterwards.