A person's risk for atrial fibrillation (AFib) tends to increase as he or she gets
older.
In fact, over 13% of all Americans over the age of 70 have been diagnosed with AFib.* Since life expectancies for
Americans are on the rise, so too is the number of people with AFib. Hospitalizations
due to AFib in the US have also increased greatly in recent years. They are now
2 to 3 times what they were 20 years ago.
Many people with AFib also deal with several health issues.
These may include:
High blood pressure
Angina
Heart attack
(myocardial infarction, or MI)
Heart failure
Diabetes
Stroke
(caused by a clot)
What other health conditions are associated with AFib?
Play the animated Show Me More to find out. Make sure your sound is turned on.
Obesity also increases the risk of developing AFib. And smoking, alcohol, caffeine,
and stress can play a role in triggering AFib episodes.
*MULTAQ isn't right for all people with AFib. See the boxed text on the right to
learn more.
Important Safety Information
Do not take MULTAQ if you have severe heart failure
or if you have been in the hospital recently for heart failure, even if you are
better now. People with severe heart failure who take MULTAQ have an increased chance
of dying.
Call your doctor immediately if you're taking MULTAQ and feel symptoms of worsening
heart failure. These may include weight gain, leg swelling, and increasing shortness
of breath while resting.
You should not take MULTAQ if you have severe liver problems.
You should not take MULTAQ if you are breastfeeding, pregnant, or plan to become
pregnant as it is not known if it may pass to or harm your baby.
Your potassium levels should be within the normal range prior to and while taking
MULTAQ. Tell your doctor about any diuretic medications you are taking as some can
lower the level of potassium or magnesium in your blood.
Your doctor may perform certain tests, such as heart exams and blood tests, while
you're taking MULTAQ.
MULTAQ can interact with certain medications and herbal supplements. Do not use
the following medications with MULTAQ:
- Nefazodone
- Voriconazole
- Ritonavir
- Telithromycin
- Ketoconazole
- Clarithromycin
- Itraconazole
- Cyclosporine
The following medicines can lead to a dangerous abnormal heart rhythm if taken with
MULTAQ:
- Phenothiazines
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Certain medicines used to treat abnormal heart rhythm or fast heartbeat
- Certain antibiotics
Please read the accompanying Medication Guide and tell your doctor about all medications
you take to help avoid serious drug interactions. Do not drink grapefruit juice
while taking MULTAQ.
The most common side effects when taking MULTAQ are diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain,
skin rash, and slowed heartbeat.
Full Prescribing Information Including Boxed Warning
MULTAQ Medication Guide (English)
Guía del Medicamento de MULTAQ (Español)
Click here for information on drug anti-counterfeiting
Remember, your doctor is the single best source of information regarding your health.
Please consult your doctor if you have any questions about your health or your medicine.
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