Propafenone

Propafenone is a Class 1C antiarrhythmic drug with local anesthetic effects, and a direct stabilizing action on myocardial membranes.

Indications

Supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias.

Dosage

Oral; 150-300mg/day under supervision

Contra-Indications

uncontrolled congestive heart failure, cardiogenic shock, sinoatrial, atrioventricular and intraventricular disorders of impulse generation and/or conduction (e.g., sick sinus node syndrome, atrioventricular block) in the absence of an artificial pacemaker, bradycardia, marked hypotension, bronchospastic disorders, manifest electrolyte imbalance, and known hypersensitivity to the drug.

Special Precautions

Paediatric: Safety not yet established Pregnancy: Category C, use with caution. Lactation: Not known if secreted in milk Elderly: Data not sufficient

Side Effects

alteration in taste, allergic skin rashes, leucopenia, bradycardia and bitter or metallic taste, Dizziness, headache, visual disturbances, vertigo, dry mouth, GI disturbances,, SA/AV or intraventricular blocks. Severe hypotension, especially in elderly.

Drug Interactions

cimetidine, fluoxetine, quinidine, HIV protease inhibitors, theophylline, metoprolol, propanolol, digoxin and warfarin