Antiarrhythmics
What they do
Antiarrhythmic drugs are a larger group of medicines that can be used to control an abnormal heart rhythm. However, in heart failure, antiarrhythmic drugs are prescribed cautiously, because they may have serious side effects.
Side effects of selected antiarrhythmic drugs
- Amiodarone is a very potent drug and is sometimes needed to control heart rhythm disturbances in heart failure. However, it markedly increases the sensitivity of your skin to sunlight! Therefore, you should avoid direct exposure to the sun and always use a high-factor sunscreen. It is recommended to get your skin checked by a dermatologist annually. Further, long-term treatment with amiodarone may also affect thyroid function and eye-sight, which should be checked also regularly. The drug level of amiodarone in your body system can be checked with a dedicated blood test.
- Digoxin or digitoxin are so-called cardiac glycosides. They slow the heart beat when atrial fibrillation is present. Today, only small doses are prescribed, which make these drugs well torable. Side effects are more common with higher doses and include symptoms like nausea, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. The drug level of digoxin or digitoxin in your body system can be checked with a dedicated blood test.
Tip
Some antiarrhythmics may have an interaction with grapefruit juice, altering the effect of this medicine. Your doctor will be able to explain this to you.
