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@pmrsuzie
My cardiologist has recently suggested combining a low dose of both metoprolol and flecainide taken together after I had a CT Scan. I had a 2-week bout of irregular heartbeats (with a pacemaker) that warranted the test. At first she said that I would need to be hospitalized for 3 days during the process of combining the 2 drugs. After the test, she said that I could start taking a low dose (50 mg twice a day) of the flecainide together with my regular dose of metoprolog (also 50 mg twice a day). ( I have asked for an explanation of why the hospitalization is no long required and am waiting to hear back.) Any comments on this combination of drugs at this dosage? Worrisome symptoms to contact the doctor about? Other advice? Thank you.
Replies to "@pmrsuzie My cardiologist has recently suggested combining a low dose of both metoprolol and flecainide taken..."
@finnegan What PMR meds or other meds are you on. I was on Tyenne (Actemra bio-similar drug) for PMR and had PVC's (Premature Ventricular Contractions). When I stopped the Tyenne due to diverticulitis the PVC's went away. If you have started a new drug recently I would talk with an AI agent to see if your new drug has a known cardiac risk. If it does then you could bounce the problem back to your doctor who Rx-ed the new drug. I do not want to get into a loop of taking one drug to offset the side effects of another drug if I can possibly avoid it.
@finnegan
I don't know what kind of irregular heartbeats you're experiencing. I am on 40mg sotalol twice a day for PVCs that started about 7 years ago. About 3 years ago I started having PACs too, so they added 40mg verapamil twice a day. Each has the added effect of slightly lowering BP. I have not had any issues since, other than the first week I was on prednisone for PMR. Choice of Rx and dosage varies by doctor, symptoms and potential interaction from other meds.
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@finnegan
I'm not an expert so what I tell you is not really 'advice', it's what is working for 'me'. I am taking 50mg Flecainide Acetate twice a day, morning and evening. The 50mg Metoprolol Succinate ER I take once a day in the morning. Both meds with breakfast. I think the metoprolol is also helping with my Meniere's symptoms because it's a beta blocker sometimes prescribed for Meniere's patients.
I had the monitor and stress tests because I was having noticeable palpitations/arrythmia. This combo of meds is working for me, I only occasionally now get that irregular heartbeat symbol when I take my bp. If I get that irregular symbol, I'll wait a bit and retake my bp. I have never gotten that symbol the second time. I only see the cardiologist once a year.