Flecainide

-Flecainide is an antiarrhythmic medication that belongs to the class of Vaughan-Williams class IC agents. It works by inhibiting sodium channels, thereby stabilizing cardiac cell membranes and preventing abnormal electrical activity in the heart. -Flecainide is used to treat the symptoms of and to prevent Arrhythmias. It belongs to a class of drugs called Antidysrhythmics, Ic.

Indications

-Flecainide is primarily indicated for the treatment and prevention of certain types of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, such as sustained ventricular tachycardia and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter. -Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardias (PSVT), including atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia, atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia and other supraventricular tachycardias of unspecified mechanism associated with disabling symptoms. -Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter (PAF) associated with disabling symptoms. -Prevention of ventricular arrhythmias, such assustained ventricular tachycardia (sustained VT), that in the judgment of the physician are life-threatening.

Dosage

-The dosage of flecainide varies based on the specific arrhythmia being treated. It is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and regimen provided by the healthcare provider. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on individual patient response. -Oral; typical adult starting dose is 50 mg to 100 mg by mouth twice a day, and the maximum recommended daily dose is 300 mg to 400 mg per day depending on the reason for use.

Contra-Indications

-Flecainide is contraindicated in patients with significant structural heart disease, recent myocardial infarction, severe heart failure, or certain conduction abnormalities. It should not be used in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to flecainide or related compounds. -Patients with pre-existing second- or third-degree AV block, or with right bundle branch block when associated with a left hemiblock (bifascicular block), unless a pacemaker is present to sustain the cardiac rhythm should complete heart block occur. It is also contraindicated in the presence of cardiogenic shock or known hypersensitivity to the drug.

Special Precautions

-Caution should be exercised in patients with pre-existing heart conditions, electrolyte imbalances, or impaired renal function. Regular monitoring of cardiac function, ECG, and blood pressure is recommended during treatment. Flecainide should be used with caution in elderly patients and those with hepatic impairment.Paediatric: Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established. Pregnancy: Category C; It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the Potential risk to the fetus. Lactation: flecainide is excreted in human breast milk in concentrations as high as 4 times (with average levels about 2.5 times) corresponding plasma levels. Elderly: Data not sufficient

Side Effects

-Common side effects include dizziness, visual disturbances, nausea, and headache. Serious but rare side effects may include proarrhythmia, exacerbation of arrhythmias, and allergic reactions. Patients should report any unusual symptoms promptly to their healthcare provider. -Dizziness, Changes in vision, such as blurriness or trouble focusing, Shortness of breath, Headache, Nausea, Tiredness, Palpitations (feeling that your heart is racing), Chest pain, Weakness or lack of energy. Tremor,Constipation, Swelling due to fluid buildup, Abdominal pain, Vomiting, diarrhea, or poor appetite, Rash, Double vision, Tingling or numbness, Flushed skin, Sweating, Sleepiness, Ringing in the ears, Anxiety, Insomnia (trouble sleeping), Depression.

Drug Interactions

-Flecainide may interact with other antiarrhythmic drugs, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and certain medications that affect liver enzymes. Inform your healthcare provider about all prescribed and over-the-counter medications, as well as herbal supplements. -Amiodarone, other antiarrhythmic drugs