What is the technical term for an abnormally rapid heart rate?

The term "tachycardia" specifically refers to an abnormally rapid heart rate, typically defined as a resting heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute in adults. This condition can arise from various factors, including stress, anxiety, certain medications, or underlying health issues. Understanding tachycardia is essential in the context of drug recognition, as some substances may affect heart rate and contribute to this condition.

Bradycardia, which refers to a slower than normal heart rate, and arrhythmia, which indicates an irregular heartbeat, capture different cardiac issues that are not characterized by an increase in heart rate. Hypotension refers to low blood pressure and is unrelated to the heart rate classification. Recognizing these distinctions is crucial for effective assessment in drug recognition scenarios.