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Gastric side affects
I reported occasion afib episodes during the night that lasted for minutes. Dr put a heart monitor on and I had one episode that was of long duration. He prescribed 25mg metoprolol and 15 mg eliquis daily in April. I immediately started having intestinal problems with emergency bathroom runs up to 5-6 times a day and night. On my second visit with complaint cardiologist switched to Xarelto. I thought some improvement but actually getting worse worrying about loss of control. I have not had a normal bowel since starting meds. Nowhere do I find this as a side effect
Cardio dr suggested an ablation but with rare afib episodes not sure about pursuing and not comfortable messing with my heart with watchman procedure
All tests ie echo and blood tests show a healthy heart. Have an appointment next week again. Just know can’t continue like this as can hardly make a plan as so unpredictable. I am an active and otherwise healthy 85 on no other meds
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The greatest risk is from stroke. When you are fibrillating, the LAA does not get properly 'washed out' or flushed with each beat, and that is where they find the clots originate. The risk rises with frequency and duration, so if you have a short run, ten minutes, and then nothing for weeks, you can probably cease the DOAC.......ON THE ADVICE of your cardiologist. I would ask you not to do this on your own accord, but with agreement from an expert. Remember that one's risk of a stroke is not solely reliant on whether or not you are fibrillating. There are other natural risks that we all have, and they build with age. If you have even one more comorbidity, it might be much better if you just lump it and take the DOAC....as prescribed.
Metoprolol is another beast entirely. It is a 'rate control' medication, a beta-blocker (beta adrenergic agonist). It can both slow the heart's rate, but also reduce the force of each contraction. This means it can also be used as a first blood pressure drug....as my cardiologist explained to me. In my case, I was also prescribed a statin, and that is what I blamed when I became lethargic, or had more difficulty sustaining a run. I'd had to run/walk.
I don't know about gastric problems. What problems? Repeating? Acidic or frequent belching? Acid reflux?
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1 ReactionIt took only 6 hours for me to get an adverse reaction to Eliquis. I had massive stomach and chest pressure issues on Eliquis and then Afib a lot. I also had dementia like feelings and major thick sinus phlegm and more. I was told all the newer drugs have the same basic chemical Properties. I had to go to warfarin. It’s been 5 months and the stomach and chest gas is just starting to go away, but my diet is very limited I don’t want the chest pressure . If you need help on things to eat maybe I can help . Basically bland protein foods Skyr yogurt plain chicken salmon avocados
Thanks for your input. Although my side effects are different they cannot be ignored. So far my system cannot tolerate Eliquis or Xaraltro ending with ibs symptoms. This has been going on since April when first prescribed. I see the cardiologist next week and going to ask him to try warfarin. 🙏🤞
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3 ReactionsThanks for your input. I am realizing my system just can’t tolerate Eliquis or Xaraltro. Have ibs symptoms since April when first prescribed. At times I skip a dose when I have a golf outing and symptoms subside. See cardiologist next week and may ask to try Warfarin the old standard. Had I known I would not started this regimen
Warfarin is a slight hassle at first. But it’s not a new drug it’s 70 years old.
It takes monitoring every week for a while until the RX and your eating habits match up. Just a finger stick blood draw.
I have to break the warfarin pills in half my dose is so low. I think Eliquis was over dosing me.
Will keep you posted after my doctor appt this week. Sure hoping for a resolution
Skipped dosage last night because of golf tournament today and was normal all day! I agree warfarin old tried and true. Fingers crossed!
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2 ReactionsDr Google says Gastric problems stem from a mix of dietary choices like fatty, spicy, or processed foods, lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol, stress, and lack of exercise, and medical issues like H. pylori infections, chronic diseases (e.g., GERD, IBS), and the use of certain medications (like NSAIDs). Stress and anxiety can also significantly contribute by altering digestive processes. Also eating tolo fast.
Eating processed foods, too much anim al products, combination of foods.
EXAMINE your diet. Get a notebook and write down what you are eating and when. I used to have gastric problems, but at age 76, have rarely had any for about 40 years. But I pay attention to what I am eating, and do not run to the doc or pharmacy to take something that will make it worse.
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1 Reactionalso lactose intolerance and bubble drinks of any kind.
In deference to your pet avoidance, Lindy, caffeine, I have read that coffee can raise stomach acid production. There are times when that is a good thing, but it can also exacerbate ulcers, as an example of when it's bad. However, heartburn, indigestion, GERD...these are triggers for some people who have paroxysmal AF. Naturally, they would want to experience that as seldom as possible.