Flecainide

Uses

Flecainide is used in the treatment of arrhythmia.

How it Works

How Flecainide works Flecainide is an anti-arrhythmic medication that functions by blocking abnormal electrical signals in the heart, helping to restore an irregular heartbeat to a normal rhythm.

Side Effects

Common side effects of flecainide include heart failure and ventricular arrhythmia.

Expert Advice

  • Flecainide may cause dizziness.
  • Do not drive or perform activities that require mental focus until you know how it affects you.
  • Do not start any medications, including prescription or over-the-counter medicines, without informing your doctor, as they may alter Flecainide levels in your body.
  • Your doctor may order blood tests to check your sodium and potassium levels, kidney function, and lung function before starting treatment with this medicine.
  • Your doctor may regularly monitor your blood sugar levels while you are taking this medicine.
  • Inform your doctor if you experience a slow or fast heart rate, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
  • Notify your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.
  • Do not stop taking this medication suddenly without consulting your doctor.

Other Combinations

Frequently asked questions

No, Flecainide is not a beta blocker; it is an antiarrhythmic medication that blocks fast sodium channels in the heart to treat abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias).
Yes, Flecainide can cause insomnia, sleepiness, dizziness, and visual disturbances. If you experience these symptoms, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery and consult your doctor.
Flecainide may increase the risk of subsequent heart attacks or death in patients who had a heart attack within the past two years. It should be used cautiously and only for life-threatening arrhythmias. Discuss risks with your doctor.
Follow your doctor's prescription for Flecainide. It is typically taken in divided doses throughout the day, on an empty stomach or at least one hour before meals, with sufficient water.
Flecainide's absorption can be affected by dairy products, potentially reducing its effectiveness. However, in children, reduced milk intake may increase side effects, necessitating dose adjustments based on milk consumption.
Yes, Flecainide may lower heart rate and can also lead to increased heart rate, palpitations, decreased blood pressure, heart block, or heart attack. Treatment usually starts in a hospital setting with close monitoring.
Weight gain is not a direct side effect of Flecainide. However, it may lead to conditions like heart failure and edema (fluid retention), which can cause apparent weight gain. Consult your doctor if you experience these symptoms.
Inform your doctor if you are on metoprolol before starting Flecainide. While combining these medications may improve rhythm control in persistent atrial fibrillation, do not start metoprolol independently.
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