Amiodarone side effect?

[George67]

Started taking Amiodarone a few months ago, and returned to NSR quickly. Tried light exercise but had stomach cramps immediately. Ex runner, so pretty fit. Any views appreciated.

[Jason1971]

Hi George, I'm currently on my second bout of Amiodarone, but still waiting for it to kick in after 8 days. However, when I was on it first time round it worked like a treat. I'm quite an active person and whilst taking it, it was like I had no issues at all. When I switched to flecainide I struggled with my cardio. I was out of breath quite a lot and felt about 20 years older. I was a little upset, as I know Flecainide isn't as potent as Amiodarone.

Hope things go OK for you

[excalibur in reply to Jason1971]

Hi George. I was on Amiodarone for 8 years. Because it limits your heart rate, you will find that it limits your exercise rate a bit, but I was always able to work out. I never had stomach cramps though

Hope they go away in time

Lance

[Hidden]

Hi George67 You need to get eyes kidneys lungs and thyroid checked on this medication if you are going to continue with it, around every 3-6mths. I was ok on this but had stomach problems on all medication then found out I had IBS which started at the same time as the arrhythmia, I have tried 2 other medications prior to this, so I realized that it wasn't the medications and got it checked out properly. I think you should get this looked at rather than guessing its the medication.

Hope this helps somewhat.

[jeanjeannie50]

Hi George - I took Amiodarone for about 18 months and felt really well on it. However, tests showed that it was damaging my thyroid function. I agree with Ultramarine you need to let your GP know about your stomach cramps and get it checked out properly.

Hope you are soon 100% fit again.

[George67]

Many Thanks for your help folks, much appreciated.