Antiarrhythmic Medicines for Atrial Fibrillation
What To Think About
Antiarrhythmic medicines might interact with many other medicines that you might take. Tell your doctor all of the medicines that you take. Be sure to include nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and natural supplements.
Grapefruit juice can affect some antiarrhythmic medicines such as sotalol. Ask your doctor if your medicine is affected by grapefruit juice and if you need to make any changes to avoid problems. For more information, see Reference Grapefruit Juice and Medication.
Amiodarone
If you take amiodarone, your doctor will check you carefully for side effects to make sure you can take the medicine safely. Talk to your doctor if you have any side effects or any concerns about taking amiodarone. Because amiodarone can cause serious side effects, it is typically used for people who have severe symptoms when other medicines have failed.
Dronedarone
Dronedarone (Multaq) should not be used by some people who have heart failure, because it can cause serious problems, including death. If you have heart failure, talk to your doctor about whether this medicine is safe for you.
Taking medicine
Medicine is one of the many tools your doctor has to treat a health problem. Taking medicine as your doctor suggests will improve your health and may prevent future problems. If you don't take your medicines properly, you may be putting your health (and perhaps your life) at risk.
There are many reasons why people have trouble taking their medicine. But in most cases, there is something you can do. For suggestions on how to work around common problems, see the topic Reference Taking Medicines as Prescribed.
Advice for women
If you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant, do not use any medicines unless your doctor tells you to. Some medicines can harm your baby. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. And make sure that all your doctors know that you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant.
Checkups
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
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| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: May 14, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference John M. Miller, MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
