Carvedilol

• by Trevor Travis
• 2018-11-28 09:23:58
• Conditions, Meds & Tests
• 1335 views
• 4 comments

I have a history of heart problems going back 14 years. I have three stents and have had an ablation for atrial fibrillation. I also had a pacemaker fitted, as I had developed bradycardia and this allowed me to function well and live a full life for several years. As I had had a bad reaction to a beta blocker (bisoprolol fumarate) I was put on to verapamil which I tolerated very well.

One year ago at the time of a checking of pacemaker data I reported feeling well and I was very active.

Over the course of the year, however, I began feeling progressively unwell to the point where I wondered if the Afib had returned. I went to see the consultant who had performed the ablation, someone who I get on extremely well with, and after checking through the tests that he had had done prior to the consultation, he looked very puzzled and told me that I had had no atrial fibrillation this year. He suggested that, in his opinion, the problem was due to a pacing cardiomyopathy which was causing left ventricular heart failure. He recommended a change of pacemaker with CRT. This information was confirmed to me in a letter that was copied to my cardiologist.

My cardiologist confirmed the diagnosis and arranged for the pacemaker to be changed immediately. I was given a lot of information on which to make a decision, was given the option of having a CRT pacemaker with a defibrillator, which I accepted.

Prior to changing my pacemaker (mid August this year) my Verapamil was stopped and I was put onto Carvedilol. The surgeon who placed the pacemaker confirmed that this was, in his opinion, the best choice for me.

I have mentioned problems with beta blockers in the past, know that it is in my best interest to be on one and was pleased that the effect of the carvedilol (6.25 mg twice daily) compared to the bisoprolol was relatively mild though still bothersome: for several hours after taking it I have a headache and am short of breath, my tongue feels enlarged and my throat constricted. This is very limiting and makes ordinary tasks a struggle. I take one of the carvedilol tablets before going to bed try to lessen the impact

The biggest challenge, though, is that I have developed a troublesome and very itchy rash. It has been a particular problem at the top of my chest on the left hand side near my neck, though there are outbreaks in other parts of my body including my scalp.

I am therefore in a dilemma here. I know that carvedilol is probably the best choice for someone with heart weakness and that, because it may well be life extending, in spite of the reactions I am getting, the best advice might be to continue with it. It seems, however that I am getting an allergic reaction which brings its own problems.

I would be grateful for any advice and help to get my own mind clear as to the options before I approach my doctor or cardiologist.

Thank you in advance

Trevor Travis