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QuinidinePronounced"KWIN-ih-deen" Common brand names:Quinidex UsesThis medication is used to treat or prevent many types of irregular heartbeats (heart arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation). Quinidine can greatly improve your ability to perform normal activities by decreasing the number of irregular heartbeats you have. However, it may not stop all your irregular heartbeats completely. It works by blocking abnormal heartbeat signals. Before and while you are using quinidine, your doctor may prescribe other medications (such as "blood thinners"/anticoagulants such as warfarin, beta blockers such as metoprolol) to shrink any blood clots in the heart and to slow your pulse. Other UsesThis section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional. This drug may also be used for malaria. How to Use This MedicationBefore starting this drug, the manufacturer recommends that you take a test dose (usually a smaller amount than your regular dose) to determine whether you are allergic to it. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details. Take this medication by mouth with or without food with a full glass of liquid (8 ounces/240 milliliters) as directed by your doctor. This medication is best taken on an empty stomach, but taking it with food may help decrease stomach upset. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this medication. Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Swallow the tablets whole. There are different brands and forms of this medication available. Not all have identical effects. Do not change quinidine products without talking to your doctor or pharmacist. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. 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. Avoid large changes in your dietary salt intake while being treated with this medication unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. The amount of salt in your diet may affect the amount of quinidine absorbed by your system. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens. |