Beta Blockers versus Calcium Channel Blockers

[oz7]

Hey fellow heart friends.....what do you know of beta blockers versus calcium channel blockers for the treatment of symptomatic PVC's, they're not getting any better for sure on the beta blocker's in fact I am weaning myself off of them, find out tomorrow what my 1,000,987 holter results are......

[Jerry_NJ]

Thanks for the compliment, and I share this honor with the many others who devote their time and experience on the Community.

I'll answer your question as a adjunct to this thread as my input may be of interest to others.

I will not argue with the possible side effect of beta blockers, but I can say in my case I can associate weight gain (most of us have some problem with it) with my consuming too many high calorie "goodies".  I find I love food and especially sweets as I get older.  I was once a very tall thin guy who could eat anything, but no more.  

If the weight gain is minor and the "extra" calorie intake isn't obvious, just a little more exercise will help, as you know.  I feel like I'm talking to myself, hope I'm listening : )

[dmacd74]

Jerry, I don't know what I would do without seeing your calm, caring posts.  I have a question about beta blockers.  Do you think they can cause weight gain?  I am on 25 mg per day to control unifocal pvc's (up to 17K per day), I have had pvcs for 15 years.  I was put on rhythmol 10 years ago, then switched to verapamil, now on toprol since last July.  I am doing very well on it and 25mg seems to do the trick, but I have gained some weight and there is all kinds of information on the web about toprol and weight gain.  I guess I just don't want to believe that I am eating more (which I probably am!).  Any information would help.

Debbie

[Jerry_NJ]

I read you to say the BB did give you (some) relief, but are no longer (as) effective.  If that is the case perhaps your doctor will prescribe a higher dose, that seems to be the approach my cardiologist uses.  He had me up to 200 mg of Metoprolol to lower my HR which is driven by atrial fibrillation.  I did mention CCB a time or two but he didn't support the idea of changing.  I also have trouble dreams, every night, and BB can contribute to that, another reason for me to get off of BB.  I have my 6 months check-up later this week, and will take again about CCB again.  None of this is of much help for you, sorry I don't have any better ideas.

[oz7]

Thanks Jerry, but the BB aren't doing what they use to, I'm a wreck

[Jerry_NJ]

BB seem to be the medication of choice with CCB being used only when there is a symptomatic problem (side-effects) from BB.  I an unaware of CCB being used for other reasons.  That is, I believe CCB are less effective at controlling/limiting/reducing irregular heart rhythms.