Side-effects include a fall in blood pressure, especially when combined with diuretics for the first time. Amiodarone is very effective but it has side effects, including headache, flushing, dizziness and stomach upsets. Flecainide is used for serious heart rhythm disturbances. Propafenone is used to treat intermittent or paroxysmal atrial fibrillation - where the heart beats fast and irregularly and may lead to heart failure. Its use is usually avoided in patients with asthma or chronic lung disease.
Digoxin is used to treat atrial fibrillation.
The drug slows the heart, relieving the symptoms of breathlessness and palpitation, but does not restore its regularity - additional treatment may be needed for this. Anticoagulants prevent fibrin forming, but may cause or aggravate bleeding. Regular blood tests are necessary to ensure clotting is within safe levels. They do not dissolve existing blood clots. They are often prescribed to prevent repeat heart attacks or strokes.