Quinidine

Pronounced: KWIN-ih-dyne

Why is Quinidine prescribed?

Quinidine is used to correct certain types of irregular heart rhythms and to slow an abnormally fast heartbeat.

Most important fact about Quinidine

It is important to take only the prescribed amount of this medication--no more and no less. Try to keep your doses at regularly spaced intervals, and be sure not to miss any.

How should you take Quinidine?

Take quinidine exactly as prescribed.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember, if it is within 2 hours of your scheduled time. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

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

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 quinidine.

• Side effects include:
  Abdominal pain, diarrhea, hepatitis, inflammation of the esophagus (gullet), loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting

Another possible side effect is a sensitivity reaction called cinchonism. Symptoms include blurred or double vision, confusion, delirium, diarrhea, headache, intolerance to light, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, vertigo, and vomiting.

Why should Quinidine not be prescribed?

Do not take this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction to quinidine. Also avoid this medication if quinine or quinidine causes you to bruise easily.

Quinidine is prescribed only for certain specific types of heart irregularity, and should be avoided when other irregularities are present. It could also prove harmful if you have myasthenia gravis (abnormal muscle weakness) or a similar condition.

Special warnings about Quinidine

Quinidine is reserved for certain kinds of dangerously rapid heart irregularities. It works well for some people, providing them with significant symptomatic relief. However, you should know that--on average for all cases--it has not been shown to improve chances of long-term survival, and could actually lower the odds.

Remember, too, that under certain conditions (slow heart rate, low potassium or magnesium levels) quinidine can cause certain types of heart irregularity. It can also cause the condition known as heart block, and should be used with caution if you have partial heart block.