Ectopic heartbeat

Alternative names:

premature beats; premature contraction; PVB; PVC

Treatment:

Often, ectopic heartbeats do not require treatment. The condition is treated if symptoms are severe or if extra beats are very frequent. Anti-arrhythmic medications such as lidocaine, or other medications, may be needed to suppress the extra heartbeats.

The underlying cause may also require treatment.

Expectations (prognosis):

Ectopic heartbeats are generally benign, requiring no treatment. They may indicate an increased risk for the development of other cardiac arrhythmias.

Complications:

• ventricular tachycardia (occasionally)
• other arrhythmias (occasionally)

Note: There usually are no complications.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if palpitations occur and persist, or are accompanied by chest pain or other symptoms.

Call your health care provider if ectopic heartbeats have been diagnosed and the symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment.