Prednisone may cause what is known as tachycardia, or a rapid heart rate over 100 beats per minute. In clinical studies, other possible adverse cardiovascular effects reported were:
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Bradycardia (slowed heart rate)
- Congestive heart failure
- Heart attack
- Hypertension
- Cardiac enlargement
- Blood clotting and blood flow problems.
Prednisone may cause elevations of salt, water retention and blood pressure, which results in changes to cardiovascular and renal function. While the exact cause of steroid-induced arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats is not known, it may be due to sudden electrolyte shifts within the body that result in irregular heartbeats.
However, tachycardia is not one of the more common possible adverse effects of the drug. The most common adverse effects reported while taking prednisone were:
- Fluid retention
- Changes in blood glucose tolerance
- Increased blood pressure
- Behavioral and mood changes
- Increased appetite
- Weight gain
Side effects can best be minimized through patient monitoring and using lower potency dosages.