Saturday, February 03, 2007
antiarrhythmics
Antiarrhythmia drugs are used to treat abnormal heart rhythms resulting from irregular electrical activity of the heart. There are many different types of antiarrhythmic drugs. Examples include:
Tambocor (flecainide)
Procanbid (procainamide)
Cordarone (amiodarone)
Betapace (sotalol)
In addition, there are other types of heart medications that can be used to treat arrhythmias, including:
Beta-blockers such as metoprol or Toprol XL, which reduce the heart's workload and heart rate.
Calcium channel blockers such as Calan, which reduce the workload of the heart by blocking the uptake of calcium into the cells (this helps the heart contract harder).
There are also a variety of medications used by the doctor in an emergency situation to control or convert an abnormal heart rhythm.
Why do I need to take an antiarrhythmic?
Your doctor had determined that you have an abnormal heart rhythm that would be best treated with medications alone or in addition to a procedure such as ICD placement. Because these medications only control arrhythmias not cure them, you may have to take them for life.
Can I take other medications while taking antiarrhythmics?
If you are taking an antiarrhythmic, talk to your doctor before taking any other drugs (prescription or over-the-counter), herbal remedies, or supplements.
Are there side effects associated with antiarrhythmics?
Yes. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects:
Worsening arrhythmias
Allergic reaction
Chest pain
Fainting
Swelling of the feet or legs
Blurred vision
Shortness of breath
Abnormally fast heartbeat
Abnormally slow heartbeat
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Bitter or metallic taste or change in taste
Loss of appetite
Cough
Increased sensitivity to sunlight
Diarrhea or constipation
When first taking antiarrhythmics, avoid operating heavy machinery (for example, driving) until you know how the medication will affect you.
For a complete guide to heart disease for your patient visit WebMD Health
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Heart Center.
Edited by Cynthia Haines, MD, WebMD, October 2005.
Copyright © 2006, The Cleveland Clinic.
Tambocor (flecainide)
Procanbid (procainamide)
Cordarone (amiodarone)
Betapace (sotalol)
In addition, there are other types of heart medications that can be used to treat arrhythmias, including:
Beta-blockers such as metoprol or Toprol XL, which reduce the heart's workload and heart rate.
Calcium channel blockers such as Calan, which reduce the workload of the heart by blocking the uptake of calcium into the cells (this helps the heart contract harder).
There are also a variety of medications used by the doctor in an emergency situation to control or convert an abnormal heart rhythm.
Why do I need to take an antiarrhythmic?
Your doctor had determined that you have an abnormal heart rhythm that would be best treated with medications alone or in addition to a procedure such as ICD placement. Because these medications only control arrhythmias not cure them, you may have to take them for life.
Can I take other medications while taking antiarrhythmics?
If you are taking an antiarrhythmic, talk to your doctor before taking any other drugs (prescription or over-the-counter), herbal remedies, or supplements.
Are there side effects associated with antiarrhythmics?
Yes. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects:
Worsening arrhythmias
Allergic reaction
Chest pain
Fainting
Swelling of the feet or legs
Blurred vision
Shortness of breath
Abnormally fast heartbeat
Abnormally slow heartbeat
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Bitter or metallic taste or change in taste
Loss of appetite
Cough
Increased sensitivity to sunlight
Diarrhea or constipation
When first taking antiarrhythmics, avoid operating heavy machinery (for example, driving) until you know how the medication will affect you.
For a complete guide to heart disease for your patient visit WebMD Health
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Heart Center.
Edited by Cynthia Haines, MD, WebMD, October 2005.
Copyright © 2006, The Cleveland Clinic.
# posted by roodbont @ 1:42 PM 
