What is Atrial Fibrillation AFib
Atrial fibrillation (AF or afib) is an abnormal heart rhythm (cardiac arrhythmia) which involves the two small, upper heart chambers (the atria). Heart beats in a normal heart begi...
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Changing medications
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I have changed medications many times over the past 17 years for A Fib. This time was a little unsettling. I was on Diltiazem but the side effects of swollen legs and acute leg pain got to me after two years. (I was put on this after ablation for episode of atrial flutter) I changed to digoxin which I had taken 17 years ago as I thought it had not been given afair chance. (No blood test for levels were ever done). The method of changeover was to take both tablets together for a week, then test for digoxin levels. I was so nauseus and tired I was doubting my decision. This week I am only on digoxin and except for a day when my blood pressure shot to 200 over 90, I seem to have made the transition. I still have to have the levels tested again as the levels had not quite made it to .06
I really don't want to take amiodarone as I have such trouble with meds, so I am going to give this one a fair go. Apparently I can add a small amount of beta blocker if the pulse rate creeps up like it did in the early days. Have any of you had to try a series of different medications over the years? Apart from these concerns my life is full with husband, 5 grown up children and 8 grandchildren. I love my community work and running a program of music/playgroup for preschoolers and mums. Live is very good for me, I am praying that these current concerns will soon pass in the background. Best wishes to all of you in this support group Posted on 10/26/09, 10:10 pm |
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Before my ablation for a-fib and flutter, it seems like I tried them all. My a-fib broke thru everything. I never was on amiodarone for long term. My EP did not want me on that drug due to the severe side effects, the toll it takes on your body after long term use, and my age (I was too young). 
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Thankyou, you are the first person I have corresponded with who had atrial flutter! I was starting to think I had invented it! My A-Fib can't be ablated unfortunately - the wrong kind, however I am managing on the treadmill of medications. I was told by the surgeon I may have to have a defibulator eventually but somehow I don't think I will. Thanks for the reply. RuthCR
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HI Ruth. I started out on beta blocker (TOPROL) only. Eventually it was not effective. Then I went to Sotalol only 90% effective. Now I am on a Flecainide/TOprol combo. No AFIB for Two years! and the best news - I can have a bit of coffee each day. I am not a fan of amiodarone - too many side effects. THey have just come out wiht an amiodarone liek drug that does not have any Iodine. Hence it is supposed to have fewer side effects. The long and short of it is - there are a variety of solutions out there. You just need a competent guide, such as an electrophysiologist to help you find the best solution. Good luck
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Hi Ruth,
What a wonderful family and life you have! Of all the drugs I took, I found Sotalol the easiest to tolerate and most effective. Best of luck.
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