Heart rate, also known as pulse rate, is the number of times your heart beats per minute. While it varies from person to person, a normal resting heart rate for adults ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute.

Certain drugs can increase your heart rate, which can be beneficial in some cases, but can also be a cause for concern. Here are the most common drugs that increase heart rate:.

1. Caffeine

Caffeine is a natural stimulant found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and some energy drinks. It works by blocking the action of adenosine, a chemical that makes you feel tired. This leads to increased alertness and a faster heart rate.

While moderate caffeine consumption is generally safe for most people, excessive intake can cause palpitations, rapid heartbeat, and even irregular heart rhythms.

2. Nicotine

Nicotine is a highly addictive substance found in tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco. It stimulates the release of adrenaline, a hormone that causes the heart to beat faster and harder.

Nicotine can also cause the blood vessels to constrict, which can increase blood pressure and reduce blood flow to the heart. Long-term use of tobacco products can lead to heart disease and other serious health problems.

3. Cocaine

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that can be smoked, snorted, or injected. It works by increasing the levels of dopamine, a chemical in the brain that regulates mood and motivation.

This leads to feelings of euphoria, but also causes the heart to beat faster and harder. Cocaine can also constrict the blood vessels, leading to chest pain, heart attack, and other life-threatening conditions.

4. Amphetamines

Amphetamines are a class of drugs that includes prescription medications such as Adderall and Ritalin, as well as illegal substances such as methamphetamine and ecstasy.

They work by increasing the levels of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to feelings of euphoria and increased energy. They can also cause the heart to beat faster and harder, as well as increase blood pressure and body temperature. Long-term use of amphetamines can lead to addiction, heart disease, and other health problems.

5. Decongestants

Decongestants are over-the-counter medications used to relieve nasal congestion caused by allergies or colds. They work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which can also cause the blood vessels in the rest of the body to constrict.

This can lead to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Decongestants should be used with caution by people with high blood pressure or heart disease.

6. Thyroid hormones

Thyroid hormones are medications used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones.

They work by increasing the levels of thyroid hormones in the body, which can cause the heart to beat faster and harder. People with thyroid disease or heart problems should be closely monitored when taking thyroid hormones.

7. Weight loss drugs

Weight loss drugs such as phentermine and diethylpropion are appetite suppressants that work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that regulates appetite and metabolism.

They can also cause the heart to beat faster and harder, leading to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Weight loss drugs should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional and should be avoided by people with heart disease or high blood pressure.

8. Steroids

Steroids are medications used to reduce inflammation and treat conditions such as asthma, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases. They work by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation, which can also cause the heart to beat faster.

Long-term use of steroids can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure, and other health problems. Steroid use should be closely monitored by a healthcare professional.

9. Alcohol

Alcohol is a depressant that can also act as a stimulant in small amounts. It initially causes the heart rate to slow down, but can also cause it to speed up as the body processes the alcohol.

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to irregular heart rhythms, high blood pressure, and other heart problems.

10. Energy drinks

Energy drinks are beverages that contain caffeine, sugar, and other stimulants. They are marketed as a way to increase energy and focus, but can also cause the heart to beat faster and harder.

Excessive consumption of energy drinks can lead to palpitations, rapid heartbeat, and other health problems.

In conclusion, while some drugs can be beneficial in treating various conditions, it is important to be aware of their potential side effects, including an increase in heart rate.

If you are taking any medications or consuming any substances that could increase your heart rate, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any potential risks and to monitor your heart health regularly.