Can I Take More Medication for Heart Discomfort After 4 Hours?

The doctor prescribed medication to be taken in the morning and evening. If the evening dose has been taken and it has been 4 hours without relief, is it permissible to take another dose?

Hello, Doctor.
On January 3rd, I visited a cardiology clinic due to heart discomfort.
All tests were normal, and the doctor advised me to wear a 24-hour Holter monitor to check for any spontaneous arrhythmias.
The clinic prescribed CARDOLOL 10 mg, to be taken twice daily for 10 days.
Today, on January 6th, I took my evening dose around 6:30 PM, but by 8 PM, I suddenly started feeling unwell, experiencing palpitations and chest tightness.
I am unsure if I can take additional medication to alleviate the discomfort, so I am here to inquire.
Thank you.

Xiao Ting, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/06

Dr. Li Shengkai reply Cardiology

Hello, since I am not the physician who treated you at that time, I can only respond based on the information you provided.
First, considering your gender and age, the most common causes of chest pain may be related to cardiac valve issues or autonomic nervous system problems.
The medication prescribed by your original physician is indeed an appropriate treatment.
Cardolol is the brand name for Propranolol, which is commonly used in clinical practice to treat hypertension and arrhythmias.
It has a short half-life of about 4-5 hours; therefore, in terms of pharmacological action, after 4 hours, the drug concentration in the blood is reduced to half, making it reasonable to take another dose.
The healthcare environment in Taiwan is friendly and convenient, with costs regulated; if you are truly feeling unwell, you should seek treatment at various medical institutions, and there are emergency services available outside of outpatient hours.
Using the internet to inquire about your health condition may lead to delays in diagnosis due to time differences or imprecise information transmission, so it is advisable not to do so.

Reply Date: 2022/01/06

More Info

When dealing with heart discomfort, it's essential to approach medication use with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Based on your situation, you've been prescribed Cardolol (a beta-blocker) to help manage your symptoms. You took your evening dose at around 6:30 PM, and by 8 PM, you began experiencing increased heart rate and chest tightness.
First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand that taking additional medication without consulting your doctor can be risky. Beta-blockers like Cardolol are designed to manage heart rate and blood pressure, and taking more than prescribed can lead to adverse effects, including bradycardia (slow heart rate), hypotension (low blood pressure), or exacerbation of your symptoms.
If you are experiencing discomfort after taking your medication, here are some steps you can consider:
1. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the severity and duration of your discomfort. Note any other symptoms that may accompany your heart discomfort, such as dizziness, shortness of breath, or sweating.

2. Avoid Additional Doses: Unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider, do not take an extra dose of Cardolol or any other medication. Instead, wait for the prescribed interval before taking your next dose.

3. Relaxation Techniques: Sometimes, anxiety can exacerbate heart discomfort. Try to engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle stretching to help alleviate your symptoms.

4. Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are well-hydrated and have eaten something light. Sometimes, low blood sugar or dehydration can contribute to feelings of discomfort.

5. Seek Medical Advice: Given that you are experiencing significant discomfort, it is advisable to contact your healthcare provider or seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms worsen or do not improve. They may want to adjust your medication or conduct further evaluations to ensure there are no underlying issues.

6. Follow-Up Appointments: Since you are undergoing monitoring with a 24-hour Holter monitor, make sure to discuss your symptoms during your follow-up appointment. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

In summary, while it may be tempting to take more medication to alleviate discomfort, it is essential to prioritize safety and consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen. Your health and well-being should always come first, and your doctor is the best resource for managing your heart condition effectively.

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