Drug
Propafenone
Pronounced
"pro-puh-FEN-own"
Uses
This medication is used to help prevent certain types of serious (possibly fatal) irregular heartbeat (such as paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation). It is used to help maintain a regular, steady heartbeat. Propafenone is known as an anti-arrhythmic drug. It works by blocking the activity of certain electrical signals in the heart that can cause an irregular heartbeat. Treating an irregular heartbeat can decrease the risk for blood clots, and this effect can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke.
Warning
Though this medication often gives great benefits to people with irregular heartbeat, it may rarely cause a serious new irregular heartbeat. Talk with your doctor about the benefits and risks of taking this medication.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking propafenone extended-release capsules and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually every 12 hours. Swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush or chew the capsules. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.
Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.