Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

PROPAFENONE - ORAL

(pro-puh-FEN-own)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Rythmol

Uses

This medication is used to treat irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) and maintain a normal heart rate.

How To Use

This medication is sometimes started in the hospital where your dose can be closely checked. It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase or decrease your dose without your doctor's approval. This medication works best when there is a constant level of the drug in your body. To do this, take each dose exactly as prescribed at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. Try to take each dose at the same time each day. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped.

Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, heartburn, gas, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, weakness or changes in sleep habits may occur as your body adjusts to the medicine. Other side effects include muscle aches, sweating, dry mouth, tremors and unusual taste in the mouth. If any of these symptoms continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, rapid heartbeat, blurred vision, unusual bleeding or bruising, skin rash, fever, sore throat, chills, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: heart problems, kidney or liver problems, any allergies you may have. If you are scheduled for dental or medical procedures, inform your doctor/dentist you use this medication. Elderly persons are more sensitive to the effects of this medication. Use this with caution. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of: digoxin, beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol, propranolol), cimetidine, "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin), quinidine, rifampin. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include fast heartbeat, decreased sexual ability, seizures, dizziness, weakness, fatigue, and metallic taste.

Notes

Your doctor may want you to check your pulse rate every day while you take this medication. Learn how to monitor your pulse. Lab tests will be scheduled periodically to help monitor how effective the medication is. Keep all scheduled appointments and doctor visits.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered if it is within 4 hours. If you remember later, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).