Propafenone Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (pro-puh-FEN-own)
Propafenone Oral Uses
This medication is used alone or with other medications to help prevent the return of certain abnormally fast heartbeats that are life-threatening or that cause disabling symptoms (e.g., paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardias-PSVT, persistent ventricular tachycardia). Propafenone 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 Propafenone Oral
This medication may be started in the hospital at a low dose so that your doctor can determine the best dose, increase it gradually as needed, and monitor you closely for side effects.
Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed by your doctor, with or without food, usually every 8 hours or as directed.
Dosage is based on your medical condition, liver function, 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.
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. It is very important to avoid running out of this medication. Therefore, always order your refills several days early.
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.
