Drug Description:
Multaq (dronedarone) is a form of antiarrhythmic medication used to lower the risk of cardiovascular hospitalization among patients with some types of atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter in the past but now have normal heart rhythm.
This type of oral drug is known as a “multi-blocker”. This benzofuran derivative exhibits properties of all the four Vaughan-Williams classes (sodium-channel blockers, beta-blockers, potassium-channel blockers, and calcium-channel blockers). However, the exact contribution of this activity to the clinical effect is still unknown.
Directions
Remember to use the medication or prescription guide before starting this medication. Also, tell your doctor about your medical history or any medical condition you have.
Take this medication precisely as instructed by your doctor. Swallow the tablet orally with food. This is available in Multaq 400 mg, and it is usually taken twice a day. Preferably with breakfast and with dinner.
It is important to take Multaq regularly, even if your condition has already improved. Do not stop abruptly or change your dose without your doctor’s advice. If you stop suddenly, it might result in worsening of your condition.
Side effects
Some common Multaq side effects are:
-diarrhea
-nausea
-abdominal pain
-vomiting
-asthenia or lack of energy
Most patients taking Multaq experienced little to no side effects. However, some of the severe adverse reactions to look out for are signs of liver disease (persistent vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowish skin and eyes, dark urine), signs of kidney problem (change in urine output, weight gain), and signs of lung problem (difficulty of breathing, persistent cough). Call your physician or any healthcare provider if you experience any of the signs as mentioned earlier.
Precautions
Do not take this medication if you are allergic to dronedarone or any ingredients this medication may have. Also, tell your doctor if you have any history of heart failure, liver disease, kidney disease, or permanent atrial fibrillation. It is also necessary to enumerate all the prescription and non-prescription drugs you are taking.
Some medical conditions or medications may increase the risk of QT prolongation while on Multaq. In this case, a regular ECG check is necessary. In addition, if you experience symptoms like severe dizziness and fainting, seek medical attention right away.
This medication is contraindicated to patients with symptomatic heart failure, decompensation, permanent atrial fibrillation.
Do not eat grapefruit or any grapefruit-flavored food while in Multaq, as it may increase your chance of experiencing side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Multaq vs Amiodarone – Which is better?
Multaq has no iodine, unlike Amiodarone. Thus, the former has lesser side effects compared to the latter.
Is Multaq safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
Multaq is not recommended for pregnant women as this medication may harm the unborn baby. As for breastfeeding, it is still unknown whether this drug could pass into the breastmilk.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Multaq?
If you miss a dose, skip that dose and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two tablets of Multaq at the same time.
How much does Multaq cost?
You can check the price of Multaq at the top of this page. You may also contact us for more questions regarding the pricing of our medications.
Does Multaq make you tired?
One of the side effects of Multaq is weakness or tiredness.
