controlling heart rate

[redeye001]

Hi, I had a second ablation about 9 months ago and it apparently was successful because I have been in normal sinus rhythm since then. the problem I'm experiencing is with my heart rate. since the ablation proceedure my heart rate elevated to 100-110 bpm. my EP prescribed cardizem cd and it is keeping it under control now. the side effects are what's causing me problems. my toes and lower legs are feeling numb. I tried metoprol and diovan hct and although by bp is in the normal range my heart rate is elevated unless I continue on the cardizem cd. Is there another medication that I can discuss with my cardiologist to replace the cardizem cd that will keep my heart rate in the normal range? I feel I've got to withdraw from the cardizem as the side effects seem to be progressing the longer I use the medication. thanks

[Jerry_NJ]

Sorry I can't help as my experience is limited to Toprol and Metoprolol.  But, if I may ask you a question:  do I read it correctly that the Cardizem does a much better job of lower you heart rate than does a beta blocker?

[redeye001]

Well, in my case it seems to be keeping my heart rate between 70-90 bpm. I take 360 mg daily of the cardizem cd. I tried to withdraw from it. I took diovan hct and metoprolol after I withdrew from the cardizem cd but after 24 hours my heart rate was up to 110 bpm. my bp was normal but none of the other meds would bring my heart rate down. I took my regular dosage of the cardizem cd and my heart rate came back down to normal. after taking it for about 10 months now I seem to be experiencing circulation problems in my lower legs and feet that seems to be getting progressively worse. I'll speak to my cardiologist and see what my options are. the metoprolol won't bring down my heart rate alone but in combination with the cardizem my heart rate remains normal and my bp is normal.I haven't tried toprol xl for my heart rate but I was taking it when I was first diagnosed with afib and it worked to a degree. maybe I can try it again for my heart rate. I've just got to find an alternative to the cardizem cd.

[Jerry_NJ]

I understand Metoprolol SR and Toprol XL are equivalent, the Metoprolol being the generic, and much lower in cost.   I've taken both, albeit it has been at least 6 years since I last used the brand-name Toprol XL.

I guess I'm 'lucky" as far as HR goes.  If I take 100 mg twice a day of Metoprolol my rest HR goes into the 70s at rest.  I have been trying lower dose to see if that reduces the dream problem I have.  At 100 mg a day I don't see much change, but it may take more than a week to see a change in either HR or dreaming.  I am thinking about taking 50 mg a day for a couple of weeks to see what happens.  I keep a close watch on my HR and if it goes a lot higher I'll need to go back higher dose.  I use a athletic chest strap monitor.