Indications
Tambocor (active ingredient: flecainide) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Arrhythmias: Tambocor is used to treat various types of arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, ventricular tachycardia, and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia.
- Maintenance of Normal Heart Rhythm: It is prescribed to restore and maintain normal heart rhythm in patients with certain arrhythmias.
Tambocor belongs to a class of drugs known as class IC antiarrhythmics, which work by slowing down the electrical signals in the heart to stabilize irregular heart rhythms.
Uses and Dosage
Tambocor is administered orally in tablet form and may be taken with or without food, typically twice daily or in accordance with your medical professional's advice. The appropriate dose is determined by several factors such as age, medical condition, medication response, and other drugs being taken.
Typically, the initial recommended adult dose for flecainide is between 50 mg to 100 mg administered orally twice daily, which varies based on the specific abnormal heart rhythm being treated. Usually, this medication is taken every 8 to 12 hours, and your physician may modify the dosage and interval according to your response to the medication.
For best results, Tambocor should be taken on a regular schedule at the same times each day. Take Tambocor tablets as prescribed by your physician. In case you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can and follow your usual medication schedule. If your next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose and maintain your regular dosing routine. Never take an additional dose to compensate for a missed one.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Tambocor (Flecainide):
- Dizziness
- Feeling weak or tired
- Headache
- Nausea
- Trouble breathing
- Vision problems
Serious Side Effects of Tambocor (Flecainide):
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Fast or pounding heartbeats
- Fever
- Flu-like symptoms and
- Fluttering in your chest
- Pale skin
- Rapid weight gain
- Shortness of breath
- Shortness of breath
- Slow breathing
- Slow heart rate
- Sudden dizziness
- Swelling
- Unusual weakness
- Weak pulse
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Form and Strength
Tambocor (Flecainide) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Tambocor: Tablet
- 50 mg
Flecainide: Tablet
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
Caution
- Tambocor may worsen the arrhythmias or cause new arrhythmias in some patients. Monitor patients closely while on this medication.
- Tambocor may cause heart failure in some patients. Tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of heart problems.
- Tambocor should not be used in patients with certain heart conditions, such as cardiogenic shock or severe bradycardia.
- Tambocor should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to flecainide or any of its components.
- Tambocor may interact with other medications, including other anti-arrhythmic medications, and may increase the risk of side effects.
- Tambocor may cause dizziness or lightheadedness in some patients, which may affect their ability to perform certain activities.
- Tambocor may cause changes in vision or blurred vision in some patients. Tell your healthcare provider if you experience any changes in your vision while taking this medication.
- Tambocor may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in some patients.
- Tambocor may cause neurological side effects such as tremors, confusion, and hallucinations in some patients.
- Tambocor may interact with grapefruit and grapefruit juice, which can increase the risk of side effects.
- Tambocor should be used with caution in elderly patients, as they may be more susceptible to the medication's side effects.
- Tambocor may cause changes in liver function tests in some patients. Monitor patients closely while on this medication, particularly if they have a history of liver disease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happens if I miss a dose of Tambocor?
If you miss a dose of Tambocor, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Can Tambocor be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
The use of Tambocor during pregnancy or while breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare professional, as there may be a risk of harm to the developing fetus or infant.
Can Tambocor be taken with food or drink?
Tambocor can be taken with or without food. However, it should not be taken with grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
Is weight gain a side effect of flecainide?
Flecainide does not typically cause people to gain more body fat. However, it can sometimes worsen heart failure symptoms and cause more water weight.
Resources
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/tambocor
- https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/consumers/cmi/t/Tambocor.pdf
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/tambocor.html
- https://www.rxlist.com/tambocor-drug.htm
- https://www.news-medical.net/drugs/Tambocor.aspx
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6116/tambocor-oral/details
- https://www.goodrx.com/flecainide/what-is
REVIEWS