Medication reactions Diltiazem, statins, Bisoprolol and now something else?

Hi. Since STEMI end of last year, 2 stents and micro vascular angina diagnosis I have had the usual range/combinations of meds. My concern is that just when I think I might be getting things under control one of the meds will cause a problem - even after being on it a few months with no issues - and the juggling starts again. I’m struggling mentally with this. Statins , of varying dosages and types, resulted in really high LFT ( I’m not on any cholesterol controlling med now which concerns me - cardiologist thinks I should be but reactions prohibit this). My angina problems were greatly helped with Diltiazem but I reacted badly to those after 3 months of using them with no issues ( see attached photos of skin reaction which was everywhere except face). Was changed to alternative meds but not adequate so more meds added. Also despite taking Ramipril from day after HA abs stopping smoking immediately, blood pressure ridiculously high when checked a few months ago. Amlodopine added to meds. No issues and improved BP. Until last couple of weeks 😕. BP (home monitor) usually high amber or red zone - only green for couple of hours after meds. Also starting to get breathless when doing normal things - not too bad on short walks but lifting or basic housework not great. On occasion I struggle to get breath even sitting. But it does pass. Now left ankle swelling. This morning it took longer than usual to get rid of angina (using spray) and even resorted to dose of oral morphine which I have never used since HA! For some reason my heart rate has slowed so normally it’s 65 upwards depending on activity. Now can go as low as 51/52 I know this is normal for some people but not me. Thinking maybe another reaction?? Anyone else experienced this with maybe amlodopine or ranolazine - my latest additions but in April. Sorry for long post. Just fed up of setbacks every time I think I’m getting things under control. I’ve also gained over a stone in weight despite doing more exercise than I ever did! Sat in car last week and just cried as going to a party for first time in months but nothing at home fit me and nothing in shops. Pathetic I know given problems others have but just fed up and GP so inaccessible If you get to end if this post then thank you for reading. Just overtired

[Hidden]

Thank you so much for taking time to reply and for good advice. Particularly kind of you given you are not feeling great yourself. Hope that improves soon. Yes bi tried two different brands of Diltiazem with same result. Skin biopsy also confirmed the drug was responsible. Mega amounts of steroids eventually got rid of it but took two months to settle. I totally understand the caution regarding the oramorph I was desperate. I have been given it orally and intravenously in past few months whilst on meds and with cardiologists consent but it certainly isn’t something I would do on a regular basis ! It’s such a minefield isn’t it. I think I had just hit a really low point when I posted and appreciate your comments so much. It’s a fine balance at times between the physical and mental issues 😳. I really hope you can get to hairdressers - and you have prompted me to try to get an appointment 👍 it’s the only time I truly relax ! Take care. And thank you

[Ninjanoo]

Hi!

I had a really bad reaction to diltiazem. Had taken it for just over a month no ill effects and then all of a sudden felt like I wanted to scratch my skin off my entire body. I too came out in a rash similar to yours but was more like big scald marks on my chest, under my bra, my stomach, tops of my legs and a patch on my back. The palms of my hands and fingers went bright red and again were incredibly itchy and swollen. I really can relate to how you're feeling and how down you must be getting.

I got switched to Verapamil but within a couple of days the itching of the hands and body started and my throat had started to swell so that was no good either! I too am on Amlodipine and it is common to get swollen ankles, feet and lower legs my left was always more affected than the right but that soon caught up with my left in the end!

I struggle with household chores that you ordinarily would just crack on and get done - it takes sooo long to do the basic of things and have to take regular "rest breaks".

Keep an eye on the swelling as it can get really bad (sorry!) I resorted to taking photos of my lower legs and feet so my GP could see how bad they were getting as no amount of elevation through the day or cold bowls of water would reduce it. I nagged for help and 6 months later got a doppler scan and was fitted with compression stockings which I wear every day from getting up to going to bed - but they make such a difference.

You are definitely not alone with how you feel with not being able to tolerate certain meds - the list of meds I can't tolerate is certainly growing!

Feel free to talk about how you're feeling any time there's lots of people on here going through similar things and people are very supportive 😊❤

[Hidden in reply to Ninjanoo]

Thank you so much for your caring response. This sounds awful but it’s almost a relief to know others are going through similar things as you start to question whether you are just being a wimp ! And also I feel ungrateful as I haven’t gone through the horrendous things others on here have!! You certainly have had your fair share of reactions !!! I hope things improve and the stockings continue to give you support ( no pun intended 🤪). Thank you for offering to chat if needed. I’ll let you know if my ankle/ankles deteriorate 😱😂. Take care

[Ninjanoo in reply to Hidden]

Aww bless you no not at all. I've learnt a lot through other people on this forum and from my experience it's been so reassuring. Hopefully things will simmer down for you.