Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is Tikosyn. It treats an irregular heartbeat that happens in 'atrial fibrillation' and 'atrial flutter'. Tikosyn can help your heart return to a normal beat, and stay normal. 

To start Tikosyn, all patients stay in a hospital for 3 days. Your doctor will monitor your heart and kidneys, and will find the right dose for you. 

Once you are home, you should take it exactly as your doctor tells you to. You can take it with or without food. If you miss a dose, just take the next dose at your regular time. You should NEVER take 2 doses of Tikosyn at the same time.

One common side effect is a headache. This is normal if it is mild, and should go away. If side effects become reasons you want to stop taking Tikosyn, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. But, do not stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to. 

Tikosyn can cause serious effects, including an abnormal heartbeat that could lead to death. You should watch for an abnormal heartbeat. Symptoms include feeling faint, dizzy or having a fast heartbeat. If these happen, get to a hospital right away. 

To help keep Tikosyn safe for you, your doctor will follow you closely. Also, your doctor will teach you how to stay hydrated. You should call your doctor right away if you have increased thirst, a loss of appetite, unusual sweating, severe diarrhea or vomiting.

To avoid drug interactions, always ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medicines. 

For best results, read the Medication Guide for more information, plan ahead for refills, and ask about checking your own heart rate and blood pressure.