Can Inderal and Flecainide be replaced? I have many side effects.

Question

A.location of medications cause side effects marks, vision disorder depression chronic fatigue and sleep disorder. Are there any possible replacements for Inderal 60 mg and Flecainide 100 mg that have been prescribed for cardiac arrhythmia? could guanfacine (apha blocker) be considered as a replacement for inderal?

Anne-Émilie Dionne · Accepted Answer

Hello, The 2 medications you describe are commonly used in atrial fibrillation, but you should know that there are also other molecules in the same therapeutic class that could be used as alternatives. Inderal, for example, is a beta-blocker that helps control your heart rate and, like others in its class, can cause fatigue, depressed mood and low blood pressure. However, you may respond better to another agent in this class, so a change may be attempted after discussion with your cardiologist Alternatively, other molecules from another class (calcium channel blockers) could be tried under the recommendation of your cardiologist. Although they cause less fatigue and depression, they may cause constipation or swelling of the ankles... to be considered! As for flecainide, it is an antiarrhythmic drug that can cause vision problems as you see it. There are other antiarrhythmic drugs available, but they are not suitable for all patients (depending on whether your left ventricular function is preserved or diminished). Your treating physician is aware of this information and will be able to determine if other options may be available to you considering your clinical situation. Keep in mind that other antiarrhythmic drugs can also cause these side effects. Sometimes a decrease in the dose of the medication you are currently taking may be necessary to help with tolerance... Either way, I strongly suggest that you discuss this with your cardiologist who will be able to judge if a change in therapy can be initiated. Don't worry, there are alternatives for you! I hope that I have answered your questions! Anne-Émilie, pharmacist No. This drug is not intended for use in cardiology.