Amiodarone

[Fisherman_Neil]

I had a pacemaker/defib fitted Monday and immediately placed on Amiodorone. The only warning I got about this drug was to avoid sunlight (just my luck its not mid-winter).

Two things, how much sunlight is too much and are hands affected? I am donning long sleeves, trousers and wide brimmed hat for dog walks (short and early morning/late evening when hot).

The second is probably a case of a little knowledge being dangerous. but in trying to understand the drug I looked it up on line and frankly the list of side effects and complications has scared me. it seems like a dangerous drug. Can anyone reassure me that it is actually not as scary as the bare facts seem to indicate.

[LadyPumpkinseed]

Hi Neil, I was put on Amiodarone after I left hospital following Mitral valve replacement since, despite cardio version, my heart wouldn’t stay in sinus rhythm. Like you, I was horrified at the possible side effects and on seeking reassurance before taking it, I was told in my case it would be for short term use only. ie. 6 weeks with the dose decreasing each week during the first month. I wore factor 50 sunblock on any exposed skin and suffered no blistering. It can take several months to leave the body after having stopped taking it, so I eased off gradually with total covering up with no ill effects, but we’re all different and it sounds like you’re doing the right thing atm. On the positive side, despite the worry of how toxic it appears, I immediately felt more energetic and my AF ceased. It is a v effective drug but it can affect thyroid, liver and kidney function and my bloods were monitored before and after, and I also had a phone call from the pharmacist. I’d speak to your cardiac team and find out how long they plan to use it, and put any questions to them. I always feel much less anxious after a talk with the medics. Wishing you well with your recovery and enjoy your walks with the dog!

[Fisherman_Neil in reply to LadyPumpkinseed]

Hi. Thanks for the reply. I am on the drug for 3 months, no gradual tailing off, 3 months' worth supplied. It is for ectopic heartbeats. Something I have not been informed of before Monday despite having had several ECGs over the years (LVH, heart attack and stents last year, pacemaker for LBBB). Luckily I have an old school friend who is a GP and I am planning to chat to him when he has some free time.

[RufusScamp]

I have no experience of this drug, but they all seem to come with a list of several million possible side-effects. Having to avoid the sun at this time of year is a bit of a wotsit!Best of luck.

[Mountwood]

I had Amiodarone 20 years ago for 2 episodes of atrial fibrillation which were complications of some surgery during which my heart, though not the subject of the op, was handled and moved. I had no side effects whatsoever and I had it for several months. I hope you find you have no effects from it too. Good luck.

[Fisherman_Neil in reply to Mountwood]

Thank you. I too hope I have none. Nothing obvious after nearly a week so fingers crossed. Though I am being very careful about sunlight. I am assuming its ok to be outside if in the shade. Luckily I have a large beech tree in the garden that provides shade all day..