I have recently been prescribed Amiodarone 600 mg for a week, 400mg for another week then 200mg daily by my cardiologist.

[porsche]

He explained about the side effects, thyroid, liver & lungs which he passed of saying but those things can be addressed if they happen. Now i read about other side effects & dont like the sound of this drug, just how safe is it...think id rather have pulpitations than other problems.

[Beancounter]

Hi Porsche

Amiodarone is a very powerful rhythm control drug. and also a very good one, yes it also has side effects, but your Cardio is not prescribing it without knowing about these, it's been used for many years in the treatments of arrythmias, and for those that need it it's excellent.

I would do what the doctor prescribes and just keep a careful eye on the side effects, I am sure he has told you what to do if you experience any

Be well

Ian

[Hidden]

Hello Porsche, I am on Amiodarone, now only 100mgs per day...Like you was put on 600 then 400 then 200 over a period of 3 weeks. Prior to this was first on Metropolol then sotalol (short of breath). The first week of Amiodarone I was unwell, listless, with insomnia. 2nd week still insomnia, tiredness and unexplained heat in my body.

3rd week very tired and still insomnia. I began to feel better on the 4th week. I kept on taking them but wrote down all my symptoms as they occurred and took them to my cardiologist (in hindsight should have rung the cardiologist earlier to book in as I didn't want to be on this medication in the first place. I have been on the 100mg dose for about 3 months and in total around 8 months on Amiodarone. I do have some episodes around 1 per month on Amiodarone, so am getting a second opinion in respect of an ablation in May. Was recently tested again for thyroid, and especially my eyes, as I do Art practice in a fairly big way, luckily all is clear. The main thing is to record your own details and ask for tests to be done from your GP this way it brings you a little more peace of mind..If you are having real problems ring the Cardiac Secretary for an earlier appointment.(which I didn't do). However I'm still alive and things are clear, but I am determined to get off this medication as soon as I can.