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Can Statins Cause AFib?
Question: I am trying to determine if my husband is having problems with drug interactions. He was recently determined to be in A fib and given Eliquis. He is now having symptoms consistent (I believe) with drug interactions. I have looked at several of the drugs he takes and find that one or two can have what is classified as moderate risk. But he is no longer in A fib. He has, however, been a long term user of statins and I have read that such usage can cause A fib. Is that correct? I think his cardio has overmedicated him and trying to get some data to peruse before we go. He definitely shows symptoms of the described interaction with Lasix. Not trying to indict the MD, just on a fact finding mission.
I might also add that he was having none of the symptoms he now experiences before he started on Eliquis. We had no idea he was in A fib. His last regular appointment with his cardio was in mid-August and he was just fine. He returned two weeks ago because he just did not feel well. At that time he was diagnosed with A fib. Now he has no energy, sleeps during the day, is cold all the time and seems not as alert as usual. Also, instead of the Lasix promoting urination, he claims to be urinating less often. All of this has happened since starting Eliquis. I want to tell the cardiologist to take him off the Eliquis but will need some ammunition for that.
I might also add that he was having none of the symptoms he now experiences before he started on Eliquis. We had no idea he was in A fib. His last regular appointment with his cardio was in mid-August and he was just fine. He returned two weeks ago because he just did not feel well. At that time he was diagnosed with A fib. Now he has no energy, sleeps during the day, is cold all the time and seems not as alert as usual. Also, instead of the Lasix promoting urination, he claims to be urinating less often. All of this has happened since starting Eliquis. I want to tell the cardiologist to take him off the Eliquis but will need some ammunition for that.
Brief Answer:
I will suggest that he changes to another!
Detailed Answer:
HI and thank you so much for this query.
I am so sorry to hear about what your husband is going through. I have reviewed this information fully and I am of the opinion that this drug should be changed. If all these negative changes were noted after starting eliquis, there are many other drugs that do just the same job of anticoagulation such as coumadin/warfarin. I will recommend that the doctor uses this formulation. If the symptoms regress, then that is the diagnosis and needs no further investigations. If they however persist, then the problem might be some where else which needs further evaluation.
In all, negative changes coincide with the addition of eliquis though not typical side effects/interactions of eliquis. It can be replaced with many other drugs and this should be considered. This may serve as both diagnostic and therapeutic approach.
I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thanks for using our services and feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
I will suggest that he changes to another!
Detailed Answer:
HI and thank you so much for this query.
I am so sorry to hear about what your husband is going through. I have reviewed this information fully and I am of the opinion that this drug should be changed. If all these negative changes were noted after starting eliquis, there are many other drugs that do just the same job of anticoagulation such as coumadin/warfarin. I will recommend that the doctor uses this formulation. If the symptoms regress, then that is the diagnosis and needs no further investigations. If they however persist, then the problem might be some where else which needs further evaluation.
In all, negative changes coincide with the addition of eliquis though not typical side effects/interactions of eliquis. It can be replaced with many other drugs and this should be considered. This may serve as both diagnostic and therapeutic approach.
I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thanks for using our services and feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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