propulsid or no propulsid?????

Posted By tracey on November 10, 1998 at 09:14:20:







I was dx with Gerd in august-  I am unable to tolerate meds such as prilosec and prevacid-also meds like zantc and axcid etc. I have rare side effects and cannot take them either.  I have had all the GH tests, ph monitor showed acid in the esoph at 1.8-3.0.  I have serve chest pain constantly that radiates to my shoulder blade and left arm.  I have had a complete cardiac workup(echo, stress test, holtor monitor etc) at Bostons Massachusetts General hospital.  Everything was fine with these tests except that I have a "patentforamenovale" or  type of murmur.  My GI doctor has me on Zantac at 300mgs and carafate for the time being, I have side effects from the Zantac also(low backache, fatique, dizziness)
He would like me to take Propulsid to help gastic emptying so that the acid does not sit in the esoph so long.  I have refused to take this medication because of FDA warnings-I also take Klonopin at a low dose .75mgs and sometimes  I am on an antidepressant(SSRI) for panic attacks.
I am very afraid of the side effects of the Propulsid (my father died of a heart attack at the age of 34)  My GI doc thinks that I will feel considerably better  with this med.  My chest pain is so severe that I end up in tears most days.  I am scheduled to see a surgeon for the Nissen operation on December 3rd.  Do you think I am crazy not to try the propulsid first?  I am headed no where but to surgery.  But even if I try it it does not "fix" the problem right?  Once off the propulsid I will have the same problem correct?  Please help lead me in the right direction.  Sorry this post is so long I have gone through 2 years of agony and want this to end.  Your reply would be appreciated.