What is the drug propafenone used for?

What is the drug propafenone used for?

Propafenone is used to prevent irregular heartbeats such as atrial fibrillation (AF) from occurring again in patients who do not have structural heart disease. Propafenone belongs to the group of medicines known as antiarrhythmics. It works directly on the heart tissue and will slow the nerve impulses in the heart.

Can propafenone cause heart failure?

Propafenone can cause new or worsened irregular heart rate problems. These are called proarrhythmic effects. They can be fatal. Your doctor will do an electrocardiogram test to check how well your heart is working before and during treatment with propafenone.

What is the brand name for propafenone?

Typical dosing for propafenone (Rythmol) Tablet (brand-name Rythmol): Start with 150 mg by mouth every 8 hours. Your provider will gradually adjust your dose as needed. The maximum dose is 300 mg every 8 hours. Extended-release capsule (brand-name Rythmol SR): Start with 225 mg by mouth every 12 hours.

Can propafenone raise blood pressure?

Propafenone can cause a serious heart problem. Your risk may be higher if you also use certain other medicines for infections, asthma, heart problems, high blood pressure, depression, mental illness, cancer, malaria, or HIV.

What is a Class 1C drug?

Class 1C antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) are effective first‐line agents for atrial fibrillation (AF) treatment. However, these agents commonly are avoided in patients with known coronary artery disease (CAD), due to known increased risk in the postmyocardial infarction population.

Is propafenone expensive?

PROPAFENONE is an antiarrhythmic agent. It is used to treat irregular heart rhythm and can slow rapid heartbeats. This medicine can help your heart to return to and maintain a normal rhythm. The lowest GoodRx price for the most common version of propafenone is around $36.39, 87% off the average retail price of $287.20.

Can you stop propafenone?

Do not stop taking propafenone without talking to your doctor. Your heartbeat may become irregular if you suddenly stop taking propafenone.