Common use

Flecainide is a prescription antiarrhythmic medication used to treat and prevent certain types of serious irregular heartbeats. These include paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) and atrial fibrillation. The medication helps maintain a normal heartbeat by slowing electrical signals in the heart. Flecainide is typically recommended for patients without significant structural heart disease. In specific cases, it may also be prescribed for ventricular arrhythmias.

Dosage and direction

The standard starting dosage for adults ranges from 50 to 100 mg taken twice daily. Doctors may adjust this based on individual response and tolerability. Important dosage considerations include:

• Dosage must be customized for each patient
• Requires close monitoring through ECG tests
• Blood plasma level assessments are necessary
• Can be taken with or without food
• Should be taken at consistent times daily

Never stop taking this medication or change your dosage without medical supervision.

Precautions

Extra caution is required when using flecainide in certain patients. Important precautions include:

• Patients with history of heart failure require monitoring
• May worsen in those with conduction abnormalities
• Recent heart attack patients need special attention
• Regular ECG monitoring during treatment is essential

Inform your doctor about all heart conditions and discuss potential risks if pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Contraindications

Flecainide should not be used by individuals with:

• Second- or third-degree AV block
• Bundle branch block without pacemaker
• Cardiogenic shock without pacemaker
• Chronic atrial fibrillation without sinus rhythm conversion
• Known hypersensitivity to flecainide
• Severe liver or kidney impairment without adjusted dosing

Possible side effects

Common side effects of flecainide include:

• Dizziness
• Vision problems (blurred or double vision)
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea
• Shortness of breath

Serious but rare effects include new arrhythmias, heart block, or congestive heart failure. Report any unusual symptoms immediately to your healthcare provider.

Drug interactions

Flecainide may interact with several medications:

• Heart medications like digoxin and amiodarone
• Beta-blockers
• Certain antidepressants
• Liver-affecting drugs like quinidine or cimetidine
• Other antiarrhythmic drugs

Always provide your healthcare provider with a complete list of all medications you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and herbal supplements.

Missed dose

For missed doses of flecainide:

• Take the dose as soon as you remember
• If near the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one
• Never take double doses to compensate
• Consider setting reminders for consistent dosing

Overdose

Flecainide overdose symptoms require urgent attention:

• Dangerous heart rhythm disturbances
• Severely low blood pressure
• Abnormally slow heart rate
• Seizures
• Cardiac arrest

Seek emergency medical care immediately for suspected overdose. Store medication securely to prevent accidental overdose.

Storage

Proper flecainide storage guidelines:

• Keep at room temperature (68°F to 77°F)
• Protect from moisture and light
• Store in tightly closed containers
• Keep away from children and pets
• Dispose properly according to local regulations

Disclaimer

This information provides general medication details that may not include all directions, possible drug interactions, or precautions. The content should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult with your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your individual needs. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information and are not responsible for any consequences resulting from its use.