The Beat Goes On:
Living with Atrial Fibrillation

CHAPTERS

What Can I Do if I Have AFib?

Medicines

When you are diagnosed with AFib, you will take some new medicines.

Medicines can help by:

  • Keeping your heart from beating too fast
  • Changing your heart to a normal beat
  • Preventing a blood clot and a stroke
What does this medicine do?

Block the effects of adrenaline andother hormones on the heart to slow your heart rate down

Examples of this type of medicine

Beta blockers: metoprolol, propranolol

What does this medicine do?

Slows your heart rate and relaxes the heart muscle so it doesn’t have to work too hard

Examples of this type of medicine

Calcium channel blockers: diltiazem, verapamil

What does this medicine do?

Blocks certain electrical signals in the heart that can cause an irregular heartbeat

Examples of this type of medicine

Antiarrhythmics: sotalol, dofetilide, dronedarone, amiodarone, flecainide, propafenone

What does this medicine do?

These medications prevent blood clots from forming in people with certain types AFib to prevent stroke

Examples of this type of medicine

Oral Anticoagulants (OACS): warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran, edoxaban

Helpful links and resources to learn more about these medications:
LinkRate Control Medicines
LinkRhythm Control Medicines
LinkAnticoagulants Medicines

Learn about your medicines

  • It is very important that you know the exact names of the medicines and supplements you are taking. Keep an up-to-date list of all of them with you at all times (see the medicine log in the tool resources page).
  • Tell all your healthcare professionals that you have AFib. Tell them exactly which medicines you are taking. This is very important if you are taking medicines to lower your risk of blood clots and strokes.
  • Consider a medical alert bracelet or other identification that includes the specific name of the medicines you take.
  • Often medicines for AFib are a lifetime treatment plan.

If you have questions about your medicine, talk to a healthcare professional.

Tips for taking medicines

Talk with your healthcare professional about making your medicine schedule simple.

  • Use a weekly pillbox.
  • Use a timer or alarm to help you take your medicine at the same time each day.
  • If you don’t feel well after taking a medicine, call your healthcare professional.
  • Never stop taking your medicine unless your healthcare professional tells you to.
  • Write on your calendar when you need to refill your medicines. Refill at least 1–2 weeks before you run out.
  • Talk with your healthcare professional if the cost of your medications is a challenge.
  • Know what to do in case you miss one of your doses.

What Can I Do if I Have AFib?

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The Beat Goes On:
Living with Atrial Fibrillation

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