8 Multaq (Dronedarone) Side Effects and How to Manage Them

Multaq (dronedarone) is a heart rhythm medication used to keep your heart beating in a normal pattern. It helps people with certain types of atrial fibrillation stay out of the hospital. While Multaq is generally well-tolerated, it also has some serious side effects to be aware of.

For example, even though it’s used to treat a heart-related condition, Multaq can cause other heart rhythm problems. But more commonly, people report experiencing diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, and abdominal pain. So, what other Multaq side effects are possible, and is there anything you can do about them?

Multaq side effects at a glance

Mild — but usually only temporary — side effects are common with Multaq, especially when you first start taking it. While less common, serious side effects can also happen.

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Common Multaq side effects include:

• Diarrhea

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Stomach upset

• Rash

• Abdominal pain

• Slowed heart rate (bradycardia)

Less common and potentially serious Multaq side effects include:

• QT prolongation

• New or worsening heart failure

• Liver damage

• Lung damage

• Kidney damage

• Severe allergic reactions

Below, we’ll take a closer look at eight of these side effects, how you can manage them, and when to contact your healthcare provider.

1. Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common side effect of many medications, including Multaq. If you’re experiencing diarrhea, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Diarrhea that lasts for several days or becomes severe can lead to dehydration.

Dietary changes may improve diarrhea. Choose bland foods like bananas, rice, or broth-based soups. Sports drinks low in sugar may help replace lost fluids. Avoid foods that are spicy or fried. Dairy can also worsen diarrhea.

If your diarrhea is interfering with your daily activities, your healthcare team may recommend an over-the-counter (OTC) remedy such as bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol).

2. Nausea, vomiting, and stomach upset

Nausea, vomiting, and stomach upset are common Multaq side effects. These may occur soon after you start taking it and usually go away on their own after a few days.

Dietary changes similar to those recommended for diarrhea may help. Examples include eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding greasy or spicy foods. You can also try eating bland foods for a short period of time. Since vomiting can also make you dehydrated, it’s also important to drink plenty of water or electrolyte drinks.

Be sure to take Multaq with food. Otherwise, your body may not absorb your dose very well. If these digestion-related side effects are making it difficult to take Multaq with a meal, talk to your provider about your options.

3. Abdominal pain

Some people experience mild abdominal pain while taking Multaq. In most cases, this should improve over time. But you should let your healthcare provider know if it worsens or isn’t going away.

Keep in mind that stomach pain — especially with symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, yellowing of the skin and eyes, or fever — may be caused by liver problems. Tell your provider right away if you notice these symptoms, or if your stomach pain is severe.

4. Weakness and fatigue

Feeling very weak and fatigued is another Multaq side effect. But it’s important to keep in mind that this is also a common symptom of atrial fibrillation.

Staying hydrated and eating a heart-healthy diet may help give you more energy. Regular exercise is also part of a healthy lifestyle. But ask your healthcare provider before beginning a new exercise routine. Getting good quality sleep can also offset tiredness from Multaq.

If you experience excessive weakness or fatigue that you can’t shake, let your healthcare team know. They may consider medication adjustments to help reduce it. However, sudden weakness on one side of your body can be a sign of a stroke, which is a medical emergency. Call 911 or have someone take you to the nearest emergency room if this develops.

5. Rash

There are different types of skin reactions that can happen with medications. Multaq can cause rashes and itchy, irritated skin in some people. Rashes caused by blood vessel inflammation (vasculitis) have also been reported.

Since skin reactions can range from mild to severe, let your healthcare provider know right away if you notice a rash or other skin-related symptoms. If it’s something mild that you can manage yourself, they may suggest an OTC antihistamine or corticosteroid cream.

Some rashes may be related to a Multaq allergy. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away:

• Painful rash

• Hives

• Coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing

• Fever

• Swelling of the face and throat

6. Heart problems

Heart problems are among the serious Multaq side effects. One example is new or worsening heart failure. If you develop increasing shortness of breath and swelling in your extremities, let your healthcare provider know right away. Severe heart failure symptoms may require hospitalization.

Multaq has also been linked to an irregular heartbeat called QT prolongation. This is a condition where your heart takes too long to recharge between heartbeats. QT prolongation can increase the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias.

Go to the nearest emergency room if you experience symptoms of QT prolongation. Symptoms include a fast or irregular heartbeat. Call 911 if you feel like you’re going to faint. But you may not experience any noticeable symptoms at all. In this case, your healthcare provider may find it during a routine check-up.

Good to know: Drug interactions can increase the risk of QT prolongation with Multaq. And certain medications can worsen heart failure, too. Be sure to share your current medication list with your healthcare team to check for these interactions ahead of time.

7. Liver problems

Though rare, liver problems are possible with Multaq. Your healthcare provider may order blood tests to check your liver function when you’re taking it. Make sure your healthcare team knows if you have a history of liver problems before starting Multaq. If liver damage develops, you’ll likely be told to stop Multaq.

You should be aware of the signs and symptoms of liver problems. Report these to your healthcare provider right away. Common symptoms include:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Right-side stomach pain

• Yellowing of your skin or eyes (jaundice)

• Dark colored urine

• Fatigue or weakness

8. Lung problems

Lung problems are another rare but serious Multaq side effect. Pneumonitis (lung inflammation) and pulmonary fibrosis (scarring) are two types of lung damage that can occur. Shortness of breath, cough, and low oxygen levels are all signs of lung problems.

Your healthcare team may evaluate your lung function before starting Multaq and during treatment. You should report any changes in your breathing or lung health to your provider. They may choose to stop Multaq if they confirm you’re experiencing lung-related side effects.

When should you contact your healthcare provider about Multaq side effects?

Many Multaq side effects are mild and will often get better over time without medical attention. Some side effects, such as diarrhea, can be managed with OTC remedies and tweaks to your diet. But if any side effects are bothersome, worsening, or not going away, go ahead and contact your healthcare team.

Certain Multaq side effects, such as lung, heart, or liver problems, should always be evaluated by your healthcare team. They may monitor for these during your routine follow-ups. But don’t wait for your appointment to reach out if you have symptoms such as shortness of breath, swelling, and severe abdominal pain.

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Written by:

Julie Adkison, PharmD, BCACP, CDCES

Julie Adkison, PharmD, BCACP, CDCES, is a clinical pharmacist specializing in ambulatory care practice and diabetes care and education. She has worked in a faculty position in family medicine for many years.

Edited by:

Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD

Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD, is the director of pharmacy content for GoodRx. She has over a decade of experience as a pharmacist and has worked in clinical, academic, and administrative roles.

Reviewed by:

Christina Aungst, PharmD

Christina Aungst, PharmD, is a pharmacy editor for GoodRx. She began writing for GoodRx Health in 2019, transitioning from freelance writer to editor in 2021.

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