Flecainide

[Ctchrise]

Be aware that Flecainide causes hearing loss.

[Palpman]

Thanks.

[jeanjeannie50]

I've not heard that before, where have you got this information from?

Jean

[Finvola]

I just looked it up and Flecainide is listed as an ototoxic drug, meaning it may cause hearing loss. But there are literally pages of possible side effects and one can be unlucky.

In my case, lack of Flecainide will certainly cause AF, so it is about a balance of risks. I hope you have not had your hearing affected by Flecainide.

[Ctchrise in reply to Finvola]

Yes. Unfortunately, when I was on it, it wasn't a listed side effect. I'm glad to see it's documented now with so many people having afib. I dealt with the PAF for 8 years or so and then decided on an ablation in 2006. It was not effective, so I had a 2nd one in 2013 and have been free of the afib since then. I have had the hearing loss since I was in my early 50's. as soon as I realized it was from the Flecainide, I asked my cardiologist to take me off of it. I know it's an effective drug for the afib, but many people aren't aware of the hearing loss side effect. Hopefully it doesn't affect everyone that way. I'm curious why many of you haven't opted for an ablation. I had a wonderful Electrophysiologist in Hartford, Ct. They improved the process in the 7 years between my procedures. I'm sure it's even better now. I wish you all the best with your experience. I just didn't want to be on blood thinners for the rest of my life. They didn't have Eliquis or Xarelto back when I was first diagnosed. After seeing my mother on Coumadin for years-changing dosages constantly, I didn't want to deal with the risks.

Chris

[LordGabriel in reply to Ctchrise]

It’s not a matter of not opting for an Ablation... some of us are on waiting lists. Me included. There is a small thing getting in the way at the moment.... COVID-19.

[Paulbounce]

Interesting post. We are all different of course and med's can affect us all in different ways.

Flec is a potent drug. For me (personally) it works it's magic - however that doesn't mean it will for us all.

I think if you feel it is affecting your hearing perhaps it's best to speak to your doctor. There could be a number of reasons why your hearing is affected - for example I had bad hearing in my left ear. Some ear drops soon sorted it out. It was always worse after a flight when your ears 'pop'.

It's a long word but maybe it's worth seeing a Otorhinolaryngologist (try saying that after a beer or two!). I think Spec Savers also do hearing tests - maybe it's worth booking one and having it checked out ?

Have a great evening.

Paul

[Doggiemomma]

If someone has this as a side effect, do you happen to know if it is considered to be a permanent hearing loss? Across all the frequencies and such? Thanks!

[Hidden]

What did you say? 🤣Not for me .I've been taking it for years.

[Tako2009]

Interesting! It is hard to prove the connection but my hearing has deteriorated rapidly in line with my AF diagnosis and treatment with Flecainide. I would have said that I can put up with hearing problems rather than give up the Flecainide which keeps my AF under control. However as the hearing gets worse I may change my opinion!! Thanks for raising this Liz

[Hidden]

No, not in my case, and it has had plenty of time as I 've been on it for over 35 years. Incidentally, getting old causes hearing loss and so does wax in the ears so almost certainly confounding factors at play here. Have there been any cases of complete hearing loss? That might be something to be concerned about.

[Tako2009 in reply to Hidden]

Hi there - my ears are clear and I am advised that the hearing loss I’ve experienced does not follow the normal pattern of age-related hearing loss. I’m interested to find out what my GP thinks and maybe get referred back to the audiologists? It keeps getting worse so think I may need to take some action now!!

[Auriculaire]

Beta blockers are also listed among ototoxic drugs.