Eclamide Oral
Generic Name: PROCAINAMIDE - ORAL
Pronounced: (pro-CANE-uh-mide)
Eclamide Oral Uses
This medication is used to treat a certain serious
(possibly life-threatening), persistent, abnormally fast heartbeat (sustained
ventricular tachycardia). Procainamide belongs to a class of drugs known as
antidysrhythmics. It works by blocking the abnormal electrical activity of an
abnormal heartbeat so that the normal heartbeat can occur.
How To Use Eclamide Oral
This medication may be started at a low dose in the
hospital so that your doctor can determine the best dose, increase it gradually
as needed, and monitor you closely for side effects.
Different kinds of procainamide taken by mouth should be
taken in different ways. Each time you get a refill, make sure you have
received the correct kind of procainamide. Do not change kinds of procainamide
unless directed by your doctor. Doing so could increase side effects or
decrease the effectiveness of the medication.
Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed by
your doctor. You may take it with or without food, but it is important to
choose one way and take it consistently, either with or without food. Depending
on the kind of procainamide you are prescribed, take it 2-4 times daily as
directed.
If you are taking the extended-release tablet, do not
crush, split, or chew it. Doing so may increase side effects or decrease its
effectiveness. You may see the empty extended-release tablet shell in your
stool. This is harmless.
Dosage is based on your medical condition, kidney/liver
function, how fast your body gets rid of procainamide, other medications you
may be taking, and response to therapy.
This medication works best when the amount of drug in your
body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced
intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. It is very
important to avoid running out of this medication. Therefore, always order your
refills several days early.
Do not take more or less of this drug than prescribed or
stop taking it (or other heart medicines) even for a short time unless directed
to do so by your doctor. Skipping or changing your dose without approval from
your doctor may cause your abnormal heartbeat to return.
Contact your doctor immediately and seek emergency medical
attention (e.g., call -911, have someone else drive you to a hospital emergency
room) if your condition persists or worsens.
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