Suggest An Alternative Of Rythmol To Avoid The Metallic Taste In The Mouth

Posted on Sat, 10 Mar 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 10 Mar 2018 Answered on

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 70 yrs of age. I have been prescribed Rythmol( which is Propafanone) 150mg three times a day... Eliquis, twice a day (5 mg),... Diltiazem 180 mg , once a day......all to treat atrial flutter diagnosed one week ago. The propafanone gives me a constant metalic-like taste in my mouth. The doctor said it would. I really hate it and it effects the taste of everything now. Is there an alternative to taking propafanone that will not leave a constant metalic taste in my mouth??? I must change it .

Answered by Dr. Sagar Makode (22 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, you can have Flecainide.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Alternatively, you may get prescribed tab Flecainide 50 mg two times a day and may be later increase it to 100 mg twice daily after four to five days if needed. Side effect profile is almost similar to Propafenone, but the taste changes are unusual. You need to discuss with your local doctor and get this prescribed.

Hope this helps you and get back if you have any doubts.

Regards,
Dr. Sagar Makode
Cardiologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Sagar Makode (1 hour later)

Dr can i ask.... how do you feel about Diltizem and eliquis?? Are they appropriate??a

Answered by Dr. Sagar Makode (12 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, it's certainly appropriate.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Yes, it's a good alternative. In fact, majority of our patients remain on this rate control strategy. We usually don't prescribe anti-arrhythmic due to their side effects.

You can be on Diltiazem and if need be, beta blockers may be added to control the heart rate along with Eliquis.

Hope I have answered your query.

All the best.

Regards,
Dr. Sagar Makode
Cardiologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D