Drug NameRythmol SR (Propafenone)
Drug UsesThis medication is used to treat irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) and maintain a normal heart rate.
Drug Class and MechanismGeneric Rythmol (PROPAFENONE) is a class 1C anti-arrhythmic medicine used to treat an irregular heartbeat and to help maintain a normal heart rhythm in patients without structural heart disease.
Warnings/PrecautionsThis medication infrequently produces very serious, new irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). Therefore, it should be used in carefully selected patients to treat life-threatening irregular heartbeats only. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Before taking Rythmol SR, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: asthma, emphysema/bronchitis along with asthma, certain heart problems (e.g., congestive heart failure, cardiogenic shock, heart block or any conduction/sinus node problems, very slow heartbeat), untreated blood mineral imbalance (electrolyte imbalance), very low blood pressure. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney or liver problems. If you have an artificial heart pacemaker, Rythmol SR may alter its function (both sensing and pacing). Consult your doctor for more details. If you are scheduled for dental or medical procedures, inform your doctor/dentist you use this medication. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its effects This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Possible Side EffectsNausea, 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 promptly if you develop: chest pain, blurred vision, unusual bleeding or bruising, skin rash, chills. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), sudden weight gain, swelling of the ankles/feet, trouble breathing, unusually fast/slow/irregular heartbeat. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
More InformationYour doctor may want you to check your pulse rate every day while you take this medication. Learn how to monitor your pulse. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., EKG, pacemaker testing if applicable) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Keep all scheduled appointments and doctor visits.