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Suggest Treatment For Sleep Apnea And BP Of 150/80
Question: I would like to get away from digoxin because of the price. I have been taking it for ten years because of afib. My blood pressure is around 150/80. I have sleep apnea. My other medications are amiodarone and hydoclorizide. I have been recommended metroprolol er succinate in lieu of digoxin and reducing my amiodarone from 200 to 100 mg. What I see about metroprolol er succinate is scary. Is this a good move? Or should I spend the money. $300 more per year?
Brief Answer:
Metoprolol with amiodarone dose reduction is a good move medically
Detailed Answer:
Hello ,
Metoprolol with reduction in amiodarone dose is the best way forward , even medically if we put the cost concern aside .
Reducing amiodarone is important as ut major side effects in long run including related to thyroid , lungs and eyes .
Metoprolol gives us that opportunity.
Also Metoprolol is preferred over digoxin as it would provide mortality benefit apart from just preventing recurrent AF.
However a word of caution during transition there may be episodes of AF, so keep a close watch and stay in contact with your doctor, as you have been on digoxin for 10 years .
However if you can achieve this transition it's best for your overall health. Saving on cost is just an ancillary benefit .
Regards Dr. Mody
Metoprolol with amiodarone dose reduction is a good move medically
Detailed Answer:
Hello ,
Metoprolol with reduction in amiodarone dose is the best way forward , even medically if we put the cost concern aside .
Reducing amiodarone is important as ut major side effects in long run including related to thyroid , lungs and eyes .
Metoprolol gives us that opportunity.
Also Metoprolol is preferred over digoxin as it would provide mortality benefit apart from just preventing recurrent AF.
However a word of caution during transition there may be episodes of AF, so keep a close watch and stay in contact with your doctor, as you have been on digoxin for 10 years .
However if you can achieve this transition it's best for your overall health. Saving on cost is just an ancillary benefit .
Regards Dr. Mody
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
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