Post PM Implant

Quick Intro:  63 year old active happy  female.  Genetic history of heart issues starting with mitrovalve repair in 2011. Things were great afterwards until November of 2016 when I noticed irregular heart rhythms.  One cardioversion, one ablation later, determined PM needed bc heart rate dropped to 30 BPM while sleeping ( not frequently but enough via monitoring that it was thought to be a concern), and testing showing tachy-brady/sick sinus syndrome.  Since the valve repair, I did not notice symtoms of irregular beats  and if it had not been for my Fitbit, I would not have thought anything was wrong.  So, PM was implanted on 01-19-18 and recovery has gone well.  Actually, bc of this website, it has gone well bc it helped answer questions as I have minimal  medical support afterwards.  The one thing I have noticed is I think are PVC's , which when I asked the NP about, downplayed and stated they were normal. I do think over time, they have become less frequent.  My question is that I am on Multaq for regulating fast heart rythm.  Information on the medication specifically states it should not be taken by anyone with an implanted PM , slow heart rate, permanent afib.....and it "doubles your risk of dying" if your heart is not pumping blood through your body as it should.   It also may cause liver problems. I was previously on Propafenone but  did not like the side effects. I have to admit that there are next to none with the Multaq but the idea of increasing my chances to experience death is a bit daunting.  

I am curious as to what other members are on and how they are tolerating the medication.

Thanks to all who keep this informational website club up to date on information !

2 Comments

Post PM implant

by Dutchy - 2018-03-03 18:18:42

I was taking medication for AF but after the PM implant and ablation my cardiologist took me off it as I do not need it now. 30BPM is dangerously low.

A question for your doctor.

by Gotrhythm - 2018-03-05 12:29:10

I know nothing about Multaq, but I think anytime your doctor's reccommendation doesn't jibe with the precautions on the package, a talk with your doctor is in order.There might be a mistake, but more likely, the doctor thinks the riisk is small and outweighed by the benefits. What you want to know is why, given your pacemaker, does he think this med is the best choice?

If I saw that warning on a package, I'd have some concerns too, and I would ask for an explanation. Just my opinion, but I think it's good for doctors to have patients push back a little anytime they are given dirctions they don't fully understand the reason for.

You know you're wired when...

You run like the bionic woman.

Member Quotes

Pacemakers are very reliable devices.