Can Antidepressants Raise the Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death? Here’s What New Research Reveals

Can Antidepressants Raise the Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death? Here’s What New Research Reveals

Recent studies reveal a concerning connection between long-term antidepressant use and sudden cardiac death (SCD), especially across different age groups. But should patients be alarmed? Here's a detailed breakdown.

Key Takeaways:

1. SCD accounts for nearly 50% of cardiovascular-related deaths.

2. Antidepressant use for 1–5 years increases SCD risk by 56%.

3. Risk jumps up to 2.2 times with use exceeding 6 years.

4. Younger individuals may face a relatively higher increase in risk, though their absolute risk remains lower.

5. Experts advise not to panic—but to manage mental and heart health holistically.

What is Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD)?

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) happens when the heart abruptly stops beating due to a malfunction in its electrical system. If not treated within minutes, it leads to death—often within one hour of symptoms starting. It’s a major cause of mortality in people with underlying heart disease.

The Link Between Depression and Heart Health

Depression and heart disease are closely intertwined. Individuals with heart disease are more likely to develop depression. Interestingly, depression itself is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular events, including SCD.

This complex relationship raises the question: could antidepressants—which are essential for managing depression—contribute to heart problems?

New Study Sheds Light on Antidepressants and SCD Risk

A recent Danish study led by Dr. Jasmin Mujkanovic, presented at the EHRA 2025 Congress of the European Society of Cardiology, analyzed health data from Danish adults aged 18–90. The goal: assess how long-term antidepressant use influences SCD risk.

Findings:

Individuals using antidepressants for 1–5 years had a 56% higher risk of SCD.

Use for 6+ years raised the risk 2.2 times compared to non-users.

The association varied by age and duration of use.

Age-Based Differences: Who’s Most at Risk?

Young Adults (30–39 Years):

1–5 years of use: 3x higher risk of SCD.

6+ years of use: 5x higher risk.

Middle-aged Adults (50–59 Years):

1–5 years of use: 2x higher risk.

6+ years of use: 4x higher risk.

Older Adults (40–79 Years):

Long-term users had significantly higher SCD rates compared to short-term users.

Note: Although relative risk is higher in younger users, absolute risk remains lower due to the naturally higher SCD risk in older populations.

Why Might Antidepressants Increase Heart Risk?

According to cardiologist Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, antidepressants may:

Trigger arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms).

Cause QT prolongation, affecting heart muscle recovery between beats.

However, underlying depression might also be the culprit, not necessarily the medication alone.

Expert Reassurance: Don’t Panic—Manage Holistically

Dr. Mujkanovic emphasizes:

Please do not panic if you are on antidepressants. Depression itself increases heart risk. What this study shows is the need for a holistic approach—managing both mental and cardiovascular health.”

Similarly, Dr. Grant Simons, chief of Heart Rhythm Services in New Jersey, advises caution but not fear:

While these findings are concerning, they do not prove causality. Many variables lifestyle, comorbidities, medication types must be considered.”

Should You Stop Antidepressants? Here’s the Bottom Line

Do not stop medications without consulting your doctor.

This study highlights associations, not cause-effect relationships.

If you're on long-term antidepressants, consider a heart health screening.

Focus on lifestyle changes like a heart-healthy diet, exercise, and stress management.

Work with healthcare professionals for integrated mental and cardiac care.

Take Action:

Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of your current antidepressant.

Consider a cardiac evaluation if you're a long-term user.

Maintain regular follow-ups for both mental and physical health.