Tekosyn /cardioversion

[Jlaine]

After reading so many coments I note that shortness of breath is only mentioned ocassionally?! That is my main sympthom. I get out of breath as soon as I move around. And with that being tired a lot. Is this pretty much the case with others with afib.? Also had 2nd cardioversion 2 days ago. Is it possible for cardioversion to work after the fact instead of immediately? I didn't feel any improvement past two days but today seems better. Maybe I am not in afib at this moment??!!Those who are on tekosyn are you able to take your other meds as well? I hear tekosyn reacts with most meds. That's another reason I am Leary about this med not to count the fact that it can kill ya!! Would appreciate feedback from anyone on tekosyn.

[BobD Volunteer]

Not approved this side of the pond so few comments I would guess.

[Hidden]

Ive only dealt with flecainide but I do know when I take betablockers, I fight shortness of breath. I have taken metoprolol off and on( small dose), when Im on it, my 1/4 hike to my mailbox includes 2-3 stops to catch my breath. When Im off it, I hike right along, no problem.

[Edm174]

Hi they are my symptoms too I’m always tired and this hot weather doesn’t help my breathing too !! I’ve had one CV didn’t last long And are back at hospital on Thursday for my next plan of action !! Would love a bit more energy !!!!

[jeanjeannie50 in reply to Edm174]

EDM - Have you had your thyroid function tested? I was putting my tiredness down to my heart for years, but it was actually being caused by an under active thyroid .

Jean

[Jlaine in reply to jeanjeannie50]

I have had it checked last yr and it was at the low end of normal. I have read that low end often indicates thyroid issues but my Dr is the old school and do sent agree! Will being it up to my Dr this mtg and see about getting tested again!! Thanks much for your input. Ya never know??

[Edm174 in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Hi jean yes it was Checked along with all the other tests all came good !! Just the persistent AF hence the medication I am lucky in that I don’t have lots of symptoms just the tiredness and out of breath when I go upstairs!! I was 60 in April and would have said I was quite fit ??? Never smoked don’t eat meat !!!

[GrannyE]

I am afraid that shortness of breath on exertion is normal for many of us. Had a thought. Have you had your iron level checked? Tiredness and shortness of breath could mean that you might be anaemic. Worth checking out.

[GolfMyrtleBeach]

I moved to Tikosyn a year ago August, after trying several others and 2 unsuccessful ablations and it has been a wonder drug for me. I have far more energy that I had while on Sotalol, and my AFIB episodes, while still fairly frequent last no longer than 15-20 minutes and feel much less violent. I delayed the switch to this drug because of the hospital stay required for correct dosing and now wish I had switched sooner. I am sure any heart drug could kill you if abused, so I would not be too quick to make folks leery of this drug in particular. At the beginning of my Afib journey I had 4 cardioversions - all worked immediately, but afib recurred each time. I don't believe you would have relief from one retroactively.

[betsea]

Both Afib and meds can cause SOB.

[Nanopiano]

Hi, Jlaine! Your post pretty much described the situation over here in WA state, USA for me. I've been on Tikosyn for almost six months; unfortunately, hasn't done a darn thing for the afib even after several dosage changes. It was a bit scary to read up on it and have to spend three days in the hospital to make sure it didn't kill ya'! Don't know what other meds you're on, but I take Eliquis, atenolol and Lipitor...no ill effects from the Tikosyn. And like you, my main symptom is breathlessness, although I'm in pretty good shape. I've got a cardiologist appt. today and will re-post if they come up with anything that might help answer your questions. I'm guessing they'll recommend either another cardioversion (would be my 5th and they only last for a couple days) or another ablation, which didn't even last the night in the hospital. Very frustrating, especially since I have a houseful of guests and I think they think I'm malingering when I have to take a seat. Reading other posts from this group (who all are wonderful writers, I might add), has been immeasurably helpful, if only to know that you're not the only one out there! Will be in touch!

[Jlaine in reply to Nanopiano]

Very disappointing to hear tekosyn didn't work for you! Afib leaves us disparate for solutions to give us back our quality of life!! I was told Due to coronary artery disease I can't take other meds!Do you have coronary artery disease also?? I appreciate your response and please keep me informed as to your progress??

[Nanopiano]

Back again, Jlaine. No, I don't have any coronary artery disease, so that's not an issue for me. Just got back from the cardiologist. He's going to do another ablation this Thursday. If that doesn't work, he suggested a Maze procedure and/or pacemaker. Here's hoping I don't have to make that decision! Anyway, he said to stay on the Tikosyn in hopes that after the 2nd ablation, it will kick in and do its job. Hope you're doing okay!

[Jlaine]

Best of luck to you thurs.!! I hope It is a success!! What is a maze?? Having to decide on a pacemaker after all this is a biggie I am sure. It seems like it never ends what we have to go thru to correct afib!! Keep me posted on how things go please!!

[PaigeKing]

Hi,

I've been on Tekosyn for a year next week , and it's been fantastic ! It's got my mind off of the afib and let me concentrate on getting back in shape and fix what caused it in the first place.

The Tekosyn stopped my rapid afib with the second dose ! That's the same thing I've heard from other people.

[Jlaine]

Good to hear it worked for you!! Still a but concerned about the potential that it could cause cardiac arrest or other serious arythmias! I have asthma and have had issues with other meds in the past so that also leaves me concerned!! Also hear and have read it has bad interactions with so many other meds!! Trying to be positive about this but also objective. Hard to do. Thanks much for your positive input! Will keep everyone posted as to what happens next!