Side effects.

[Fight-the-good-fight]

Today I start taking Dabigatran and Bisoprolol for Paroxysmal AF.

As someone who loathes taking any medications, reading the side effects is disconcerting.

However, after suffering a 9 hour AF episode last night which has rendered me exhausted; I realise meds are the only possible solution to ease symptoms, and protect from stroke.

Anyone on the above drugs suffered side effects, and did they subside after prolonged use?

[jeanjeannie50]

You would probably get more people responding if you put this post on the Atrial Fibrillation site on Health Unlocked. Here is the link:

healthunlocked.com/afassoci...

Jean

[Fight-the-good-fight in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Thank you, will do

[watermill]

I have the same condition and same medication. I have been on it now for 5 years after a lengthy visit to A and E.Like you having read all the possible side effects, I was a bit unnerved especially as I don't take any other medication. Luckily I seem to have escaped side effects and my AF has been under control.

Fatigue seems to be the big concern. I am often tired at the end of the day but I am very physically active - walking, gardening, volunteering, childminding. My main concern is I have naturally low blood pressure. Bisaprolol has lowered it but the Dr is happy with the readings. However in the winter, I do feel cold and have problems with my hands being ice cold.

I can't complain as my AF is very mild. I have had good discussions with my GPs and the cardiac nurse. I was thrown off the consultant 's list at the start of covid lockdowns as I hadn't been hospitalised for a long time.

Do talk to your GP if you are uneasy. I consider myself lucky when I read posts. I do eat a healthy diet and try to keep fit. Medication has to suit you so don't hesitate to speak to them if side effects appear.

[Strathaird12]

I took it in the morning as prescribed initially but made me very tired so take it at bedtime.

[Fight-the-good-fight in reply to Strathaird12]

That’s a good idea, most of my AF episodes are nocturnal so that makes sense. Good nights sleep a bargain!

[Alison_L]

Hi F. I thought the same as you about meds before my heart attack 5 years ago, now I’m on a whole raft of them. Just remember that our bodies can take up to 2 months to settle in with a new drug, we all have different reactions to different drugs (or no reactions), and that if you do have unacceptable side effects, there are always alternatives. For example, I started off on Bisoprolol, but because of tiredness switched to Carvedilol, which seems slightly better for me. Let us know how you get on x

[Fight-the-good-fight in reply to Alison_L]

Thanks Alison _L

Initially this is my first week on dabigatron. I commence Bisoprolol in a couple of weeks time.

I am experiencing acid reflux with Dabigatron, and tiredness.

Cannot get a hold of Dr or pharmacist to see if I can take Gaviscon.

So frustrating…

[Raznic]

I am on 7.5mg Bisoprolol daily. It is split between 2.5mg mornings amd 5mg evenings. I have been on this for 6 years. Initially it made me very tired. It still does but not as extremely. The most annoying side effect for me is that it makes my nose run. Sounds funny, it is anything but. So annoying and has not subsided at all. I get through so much blue roll people must think I have a janitorial business! Apart from that not too bad at all. Of course all drugs affect different people differently. Only you will know if the benefits outweigh the disadvantages. For me, they do. Good luck.

[angel343]

hi i am on bisoporol and have been since my heart attack in 2015, i have my doses split into three 5mg in the morning 1,25 afternoon and 1.25 in the evening, They tried to take me off it but i relapsed, I am always tired but ido think for me the bisoporol works, each one of us is different and unfortunately there are side effects, I stopped reading the side effects has it tended to make me anxious then i didnt want to start taking them. I have tried to take my meds as i find suits me and the cardiologist agreed. All of us are different and it does take time to adjust, I hope you can find the correct medication and dosage for yourself, You will find lots of helpful advice from lots of kind people on the site, I would contact your health team if you are having any side effects which are of concern for you. Take care and good luck. x