Prescription Required
Description
What is Rythmol (Propafenone) prescribed for?
Sometimes, a problem with your heart's electrical signals can make it speed up, even when you're not anxious or exercising. One type of faster-than-normal heartbeat is called supraventricular tachycardia. Most of the time it doesn’t cause any serious health problems. Although a racing heart for no reason can seem a bit scary. But well worth a visit to your doctor since when your heart beats to quickly, it can’t pump out enough blood to meet your body’s needs.
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a quivery, fluttery heartbeat. Although, it is often called Arrhythmia. When you have AFib it means your heart’s normal rhythm is no longer classified as healthy. This is because your blood isn’t moving as well as it should, and at this point it is more than likely to have heart failure. This is when your heart can no longer keep up with your body’s needs. And at this point blood can also pool inside your heart and form clots.
This medication is used to treat a certain type of serious, and sometimes fatal, irregular heartbeat. paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation are such examples. When taken, this medication is used to restore a normal heart rhythm and maintain a regular, steady heartbeat.
Propafenone is known as an anti-arrhythmic drug. And it works by blocking out the activity of certain electrical signals in the heart that can cause the irregular heartbeat. In treating a irregular heartbeat, you can decrease the risk of blood clots, as well as reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Directions
This medication is taken by mouth, with or without food, and usually taken every 8 hours or as directed to you by your doctor.
Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it.
Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking any grapefruit juice when on this medication. Grapefruit can increase the chances of any side effects when put along with this medicine.
Cautions
Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic Propafenone; or to any other medications or allergies in general. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
It is best to inform your doctor of your medical history. Therefore, it is best to speak with your doctor if you have ever suffered from any of the following; breathing problems (such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema), kidney problems, liver problems, myasthenia gravis, a certain inherited heart condition (Brugada Syndrome).
Propafenone may cause a condition that affects the heart rhythm (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, fainting) that need medical attention right away.
The risk of QT prolongation may be increased if you have certain medical conditions or are taking other drugs that may cause QT prolongation. Before using propafenone, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take and if you have any of the following conditions: certain heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG), family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death).
Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also increase your risk of QT prolongation. This risk may increase if you use certain drugs (such as diuretics/"water pills") or if you have conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Talk to your doctor about using propafenone safely.
Side Effects
While minor, some of these side effects may occur. They are as follows; Dizziness, headache, metallic/salty taste in the mouth, nausea/vomiting, constipation, anxiety, and tiredness may occur. However if any of these persist or worsen, it’s best to speak with your doctor right away.
Tell your doctor right away if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: signs of infection (such as high fever, severe chills, weakness, persistent sore throat), signs of liver problems (such as persistent nausea/vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine), worsening symptoms of heart failure (such as shortness of breath, swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, unusual/sudden weight gain).
This medication can affect sperm production, an effect that may lower male fertility. Consult your doctor for more details.
Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but serious side effects occur: fainting, faster/more irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
FAQs
What is Propafenone?
Propafenone is an antiarrhythmics drug sold as Rythmol, a brand-name medication. It is taken by mouth and metabolized mainly in the liver, with a half-life of about 2-10 hours. It is available only with a valid prescription in three strengths; at My Drug Center, we carry the 300mg tablet, available as the brand-name product and the generic alternative.
What is Propafenone used for?
Propafenone is used to treat certain abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmia), such as atrial fibrillation (also known as AFib). AFib can lead to further complications such as blood clots, stroke, and heart failure due to the quivering or irregular heartbeat it causes. Propafenone is able to influence the heart to respond less frequently to abnormal impulses and helps to reduce the speed of the nerve impulses that are sent to the heart (which tells the heart to beat), allowing the heart to beat at a more normal rate.
How long does it take for Rythmol to work?
The exact amount of time may vary between each individual based on a number of factors. Generally, the medication begins to work fairly soon, with an onset of effects beginning within 2-3 hours of administration.
What are the side effects of Rythmol?
Some common side effects of Rythmol include dizziness, headache, metallic or salty taste in the mouth, nausea, vomiting, constipation, anxiety, and tiredness. You may also experience side effects not listed here. Side effects are a normal response to taking a new medication and they often go away on their own. If side effects persist and do not go away, or become unmanageable, you may want to consult with your doctor.
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