Rythmol (Propafenone)

Indications

Rythmol (generically known as Propafenone) is a medication used to restore and maintain a regular heartbeat in people with certain types of irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), such as atrial fibrillation and ventricular arrhythmias. It is known as an anti-arrhythmic drug.

Propafenone works by blocking the flow of certain electrical signals in the heart, which helps to regulate the heartbeat. Treating an irregular heartbeat can decrease the risk for blood clots, and this effect can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke.

Propafenone is available in scored, film-coated tablets of 150, 225 mg, and 300 mg, and the dosage is typically determined by your healthcare provider based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Uses and Dosage

Rythmol comes in the form of a tablet to take by mouth with or without food, usually every 8 hours or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Use the tablet regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

The recommended starting dose for adults is 150mg every 8 hours, and the dosage may be increased based on the patient's response to the medication. The maximum recommended dose is 325mg every 8 hours or 425mg every 12 hours, based on the patient's weight.

Follow your doctor's instructions and take Rythmol exactly as prescribed. Do not change the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor first. Also, be sure to adhere to the schedule of the dosage and take the medication at the same time each day to maintain a steady level in your blood.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects of Rythmol (Propafenone):

• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Irregular heartbeats
• Nausea
• Tiredness
• Unusual taste
• Vomiting

Serious Side Effects of Rythmol (Propafenone):

• Allergic reactions: skin rash, itching, hives. Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Chest pain
• Chills
• Cough
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Feeling faint or lightheaded
• Fever
• Infection
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
• Sudden weight gain
• Swelling of the ankles. Feet, or hands
• Trouble breathing
• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Unusual weakness or fatigue

Form and Strength

Rythmol (Propafenone) is available in the following forms and strengths:

Rythmol: Tablet

• 150 mg
• 300 mg

Propafenone: Tablet

• 150 mg
• 225 mg

Caution

• Rythmol should be used with caution in patients with certain heart conditions, such as uncontrolled heart failure, low blood pressure, and certain types of arrhythmias.
• Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using Rythmol unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
• Rythmol may cause new or worsened arrhythmias in some patients.
• Rythmol can interact with other medications, including blood thinners and other antiarrhythmic drugs, and may cause serious or life-threatening side effects.
• Rythmol may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or faintness and should be used with caution when driving or operating heavy machinery.
• Rythmol should not be used during pregnancy unless it is clearly needed, and the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Rythmol can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, headache, and loss of appetite, and patients should be monitored closely for signs of these and other side effects. Consult with a healthcare provider before taking Rythmol to discuss these and other risks and cautions.
• Rythmol may cause liver damage and liver function tests should be monitored regularly in patients taking the drug.
• Rythmol may cause changes in vision, including blurry vision or difficulty seeing at night, and patients should be monitored closely for these and other vision-related side effects.
• Rythmol can cause a slowdown in heart rate and should be used with caution in patients with certain heart conditions, such as sick sinus syndrome or atrioventricular block.
• Rythmol should not be used in patients with a history of myasthenia gravis, a neuromuscular disorder that causes muscle weakness. As always, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication to discuss the risks and potential side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Rythmol affect blood pressure?

You may have extremely low blood pressure while taking this medication. Call your doctor if you are sick with vomiting or diarrhea, extreme thirst, loss of appetite, or if you are sweating more than usual.

How do I stop taking Rythmol?

If you have been using this medicine regularly for several weeks, do not suddenly stop using it. Check with your doctor for the best way to gradually reduce the amount you are taking before stopping completely. This medicine may decrease the amount of sperm men make. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about this.

How long does Rythmol take to work?

The single oral loading dose of propafenone appears to be highly effective for conversion of recent-onset AFib, with a relatively rapid effect within 2 to 3 h and freedom from serious adverse effects.

Can I take propafenone on an empty stomach?

To avoid stomach upset, take propafenone with a meal or snack. It is best to take doses of this medication evenly spaced over 24 hours.

Resources

• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9482/rythmol-oral/details
• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19479-propafenone-tablets
• https://www.rxlist.com/rythmol-drug.htm
• https://www.goodrx.com/propafenone/what-is
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/propafenone-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20065687?p=1