Norpace (Disopyramide)

Indications

Norpace (generically known as disopyramide) is an antiarrhythmic medication used to treat heart rhythm abnormalities such as ventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation. Disopyramide belongs to the class of drugs called Class IA antiarrhythmics. It works mainly by blocking certain electrical signals in the heart that can cause an irregular heartbeat to slow down abnormal electrical activity in the heart.

Norpace can be indicated alone or with other medications. It is available as a capsule and is typically taken two to four times per day, or as directed by a doctor. Regularly monitor heart function and blood levels of disopyramide while taking this medication. It is not known if Norpace is safe and effective in children.

Uses and Dosage

Norpace is available in capsule form to be taken orally with or without food as prescribed by a doctor. It is usually taken four times daily or as directed by a doctor. The capsules should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed to avoid releasing all the drug at once and increasing the risk of side effects.

Dosage is based on age, kidney and liver function, medical condition, and response to treatment. The usual adult dosage of Norpace is 400 to 800 mg per day given in divided doses. The recommended dosage for most adults is 600 mg/day given in divided doses. Taking Norpace regularly is important to get the most benefit from it and take it at the same times each day to help remember.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects of Norpace (Disopyramide):

• Bloating
• Blurred vision
• Constipation
• Dry eyes
• Dry mouth, nose, or throat
• General ill feeling
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Tiredness
• Weakness

Serious Side Effects of Norpace (Disopyramide):

• Confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Dizziness
• Fast heart rate
• Headache
• Hives
• Hunger
• Irritability
• Jitteriness
• Lightheadedness
• Little or no urinating
• New or worsening irregular heartbeat pattern
• Painful or difficult urination
• Rapid weight gain
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Swelling
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Weakness

Form and Strength

Norpace (Disopyramide) is available in the following forms and strength:

Norpace: Capsule

• 100 mg

Caution

• Norpace may cause heart rhythm problems, so it should be used with caution in patients with a history of heart disease.
• Norpace may cause dizziness or blurred vision, which could be dangerous while driving or operating machinery.
• Norpace may interact with other medications, including anticholinergic drugs, beta blockers, and calcium channel blockers.
• Norpace should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease, as it may affect the function of these organs.
• Norpace may cause constipation, which could be a concern for patients who already have bowel problems.
• Norpace should be used with caution in elderly patients due to an increased risk of side effects.
• Norpace may cause a prolonged QT interval, which can be fatal in some cases, so it should be used with caution in patients with a history of QT prolongation or in those taking other medications that can cause QT prolongation.
• Norpace may cause low blood pressure, which can be dangerous in some patients, especially those with a history of heart disease.
• Norpace may cause urinary retention and should be used with caution in patients with urinary problems.
• Norpace may cause skin sensitivity to sunlight, so patients should be advised to avoid excessive sun exposure or use protective measures when in the sun.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can Norpace be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Do not use Norpace during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as it may have negative effects on the developing fetus or infant.

Can Norpace be taken with food?

Norpace can be taken with or without food, but it should be taken at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.

How does Norpace work to treat irregular heartbeats?

Norpace works by reducing abnormal electrical activity in the heart, which can help normalize heart rhythms.

Can Norpace be stopped abruptly?

No, Norpace should not be stopped abruptly as it may cause a rebound effect of irregular heartbeats. The dosage should be gradually reduced under the supervision of a doctor.

How long does Norpace stay in the body?

The half-life of Norpace is approximately six hours, meaning that it takes around six hours for half of the medication to be eliminated from the body.

Can Norpace cause weight gain?

Weight gain is not a common side effect of Norpace, but it may occur in some patients.

Resources

• https://www.drugs.com/availability/generic-norpace.html
• https://www.goodrx.com/disopyramide/what-is
• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=e2aa1642-d262-4520-bc6a-9fd3ad795677
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5849/disopyramide-phosphate-oral/details
• https://www.rxlist.com/norpace-drug.htm