Can I take Flecainide and Wegovy together?

Perché succede

Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that delays gastric emptying (the time it takes for food and pills to leave the stomach). This can delay or alter the absorption of oral medications like flecainide. Furthermore, semaglutide can sometimes increase resting heart rate, which may interact with the heart rhythm effects of flecainide.

You should speak to your doctor before using these together. Because flecainide has a 'narrow therapeutic index' (meaning the difference between a safe dose and a dangerous dose is small), your doctor may want to monitor your blood levels or perform an ECG (heart trace) more frequently when you start or change your dose of Wegovy. Contact your doctor immediately if you feel dizzy, faint, or notice a change in your heartbeat.

Heart failure or previous heart attack

Flecainide must not be used if you have heart failure or have previously suffered a heart attack, as it can increase the risk of life-threatening heart rhythm problems.

Permanent atrial fibrillation

This medicine should not be used if you have long-standing (permanent) atrial fibrillation that has not been corrected, as it can paradoxically cause the heart rate to become dangerously fast.

Pancreatite

Stop using Wegovy and seek immediate medical help if you experience severe, persistent stomach pain which may reach through to your back, as this can be a sign of acute pancreatitis.

Dehydration

Nausea and vomiting can cause dehydration. Ensure you drink plenty of fluids to avoid kidney problems, especially when starting treatment or increasing your dose.

Alcol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking flecainide. Alcohol can interfere with your heart rhythm and may increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness or blurred vision. Combining alcohol with heart medication can also put extra strain on your heart and liver.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking Wegovy. Both alcohol and Wegovy can lower your blood sugar levels; combining them increases the risk of severe hypoglycaemia (dangerously low blood sugar). Additionally, alcohol can worsen common Wegovy side effects like nausea, vomiting, and dehydration.

Caffeine (Coffee, tea, energy drinks, cola)

Caffeine is a stimulant that can increase your heart rate or cause irregular heart rhythms. Since flecainide is used to treat heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias), consuming high amounts of caffeine may counteract the effects of your medicine or make your condition worse. It is best to limit your intake of caffeine.

Dairy products (Milk)

In some cases, particularly in children or patients on a milk-based diet, high intake of milk can affect how flecainide is absorbed. However, for most adults, normal amounts of dairy are fine. If you are making a significant change to your dairy intake, discuss this with your doctor.

Low-salt (low-sodium) diets

A sudden change to a very low-salt diet or using salt substitutes can increase the levels of flecainide in your blood, which may lead to toxicity. Do not make major changes to your salt intake without consulting your doctor.

Large or high-fat meals

Wegovy slows down how quickly your stomach empties. Eating very large meals or foods high in fat can lead to severe nausea, bloating, and discomfort. It is recommended to eat smaller portions and stop eating as soon as you feel full.

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Avvertenza

Queste informazioni sono solo a scopo educativo generale e non devono essere considerate un sostituto del consiglio medico professionale. Consultate sempre il vostro medico di base, farmacista o un altro professionista sanitario qualificato prima di prendere decisioni sui vostri farmaci. Le circostanze individuali possono variare, e solo un professionista sanitario che conosce la vostra storia medica può fornire una guida personalizzata.