Mexitil

Pronounced: MEX-ih-till
Generic name: Mexiletine hydrochloride

Why is Mexitil prescribed?

Mexitil is used to treat severe irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). Irregular heart rhythms are generally divided into two main types: heartbeats that are faster than normal (tachycardia) and heartbeats that are slower than normal (bradycardia). Arrhythmias are often caused by drugs or disease but can occur in otherwise healthy people with no history of heart disease or other illness.

Most important fact about Mexitil

While you are taking Mexitil, your doctor should carefully monitor your heartbeat to make sure the drug is working properly.

How should you take Mexitil?

Take Mexitil with food or an antacid. Take it exactly as prescribed.

--If you miss a dose...

If you remember within 4 hours, take it immediately. If more than 4 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Mexitil.

• More common side effects may include:
  Blurred vision, changes in sleep habits, chest pain, constipation, depression, diarrhea, difficult or labored breathing, dizziness, headache, heartburn, light-headedness, nausea, nervousness, numbness, poor coordination, rash, swelling due to fluid retention, throbbing heartbeat, tingling or pins and needles, tremors, upset stomach, vision changes, vomiting

Why should Mexitil not be prescribed?

This drug should not be used if you have heart failure, a heartbeat irregularity called heart block that has not been corrected by a pacemaker, structural heart disease, or if you have recently had a heart attack.

Special warnings about Mexitil

If you have heart block and a pacemaker Mexitil may be prescribed, but you should be continuously monitored while taking it.

Mexitil can aggravate low blood pressure and severe congestive heart failure, so it will be prescribed cautiously for people with these conditions.