From Amiodarone to Dronedarone (Multaq)

Hi there,

I posted a week or so ago about Amiodarone damaging my lungs. I had the test repeated, and it confirmed that my diffusion capacity has decreased round about 40% in eight months; some other parameters have worsened, too. So, I'm getting off the med now, and will be starting Dronedarone instead in two weeks. I was wondering if anyone here has switched from Amiodarone to Dronedarone, and if so, how did you do it. I have the feeling that the EPs don't are not sure how long a patient should be off Amiodarone before starting Dronedarone. A few months ago my EP said at least four weeks, now he says at least two. I attended a conference and most EPs agree two weeks should be enough. However, they also said that they won't take patients who are doing well with Amiodarone off it just because there is something new on the market. So, that's how they avoid the problem of switching.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks a lot!
Inga

1 Comments

Amiodarone to Dronedarone

by Ruby Johnson - 2010-04-15 06:04:34

After almost a year on Amiodarone I had my Dr. take me off because I developed shaking of my R hand and foot. He changed me to Dronedarone and my AF seems to be pretty well under control. I do have concerns that some of the properties iin Amiodarone may also be in Dronedarone but it's almost impossible to ascertain. After almost a year off Amiodarone, I'm still shaking and doctors seem totally unaware of the possibitlity of such side effects. I called the manuffac-turer of Amiodarone and was told that 20-40 pct. of patients developed neurological reactions such as: tremors, shaking, change of gait, loss of coordination and neuropathy, in addition to the lung,eye, liver dammage it can cause! I hope Dronedarone will not have these side-effects. Good Luck. Ruby

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