Procanbid

Pronounced: PROH-can
Generic name: Procainamide hydrochloride
Other brand names: Pronestyl Pronestyl-SR

Why is Procanbid prescribed?

Procanbid is used to treat severe irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). Arrhythmias are generally divided into two main types: heartbeats that are faster than normal (tachycardia), and heartbeats that are slower than normal (bradycardia). Irregular heartbeats 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 Procanbid

Procanbid can cause serious blood disorders, especially during the first 3 months of treatment. Be sure to notify your doctor if you notice any of the following: joint or muscle pain, dark urine, yellowing of skin or eyes, muscular weakness, chest or abdominal pain, appetite loss, diarrhea, hallucinations, dizziness, depression, wheezing, cough, easy bruising or bleeding, tremors, palpitations, rash, soreness or ulcers in the mouth, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, fever, and chills.

How should you take Procanbid?

Take only your prescribed doses of Procanbid; never take more.

Procanbid should be swallowed whole. Do not break or chew the tablet. You may see remmants of the tablet in your stool, since it does not disintegrate following release of procainamide.

Try not to miss any doses. Skipping doses, changing the intervals between doses, or "making up" missed doses by doubling up later may cause your condition to worsen and could be dangerous.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from heat, light, and moisture.

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 Procanbid.

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, bitter taste, blood disorders, chest pain, chills, diarrhea, dizziness, fever, flushing, giddiness, hallucinations, hives, itching, joint pain or inflammation, loss of appetite, low blood pressure, mental depression, muscle pain, nausea, rash, skin lesions, swelling, vague feeling of illness, vomiting, weakness