Propafenone Hydrochloride
Generic Details
Generic Name
Propafenone Hydrochloride
Other Names
- Rythmol
Drug Class
- Antiarrhythmic
Chemical Formula
C21H28ClNO3
Molecular Weight
377.91 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Blocks sodium channels
- Non-selective beta-adrenergic antagonist activity
Indications
- Treatment of atrial fibrillation
- Treatment of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Extended-release capsule
Typical Dosage
- 150-300 mg every 8 hours
Pediatric Dosage
- Safety and efficacy not established
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower starting dose recommended due to age-related decrease in hepatic function
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Taste disturbances
Contraindications
- Severe bradycardia
- Hypotension
- Cardiogenic shock
Pregnancy Category
- C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Not recommended during breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- Beta-blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
- Digoxin
Overdose Symptoms
- Severe hypotension
- Bradycardia
- Cardiac arrest
Antidote for Overdose
- Intravenous lipid emulsion therapy
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Highly protein-bound
- Metabolism: Extensively metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Primarily excreted in the urine
Precautions
- Monitor ECG and blood pressure regularly during treatment
Warnings
- May cause proarrhythmic effects
- Avoid sudden withdrawal
Others
- Avoid grapefruit juice while taking propafenone.