Procan SR (Procainamide ER)

What is Procan SR?

Procan SR (procainamide) belongs to a family of drugs known as antidysrhythmics.

What is Procan SR used for?

Procan SR is used to treat sustained ventricular tachycardia. This condition is characterized by persistent, abnormally fast heartbeat which can often lead to life-threatening consequences.

How does Procan SR work?

Procan SR inhibits abnormal electrical activities in the ventricles of the heart and restores normal heartbeat.

How to use Procan SR

Procan SR should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Procan SR tablets are usually taken orally 2-4 times a day, as per directions from your doctor. They may be taken with or without food. But whichever way you start taking the tablets remember to continue in the same way.

 The extended-release capsules should be swallowed whole and not opened, crushed or chewed.

This drug should preferably be taken at evenly spaced intervals in order to maintain a constant level of the drug in the body. This facilitates its action.

Procan SR injection is given in veins or muscle, preferably by a health care professional. Do not self inject until and unless you learn to do so properly.

Do not increase, decrease or stop your dose without consultation with your doctor. However, if your condition does not improve at all or becomes worse contact your doctor immediately.

Procan SR warnings and precautions

Procan SR is not administered to patients who are allergic to procainamide or have conditions such as AV block in heart (can be ignored if you have a pacemaker), a history of long QT syndrome or lupus.

Before taking the medication, inform your doctor about your medical conditions, especially if you are allergic to aspirin, sulfite drugs or any other drug or if you have any of the following conditions: a history of heart attack or stroke, congestive heart failure, circulation problems, kidney/liver disease, asthma, a weak immune system, or myasthenia gravis.

While being treated with Procan SR, your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing will be monitored closely.

This drug may cause dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid activities which require alertness and clear vision.

Procan SR may weaken your immune system by decreasing the number of blood cells which fight against infections. As a result you body may show signs of infection such as flu symptoms, easy bruising or bleeding, nausea, vomiting, mouth sores etc.

Pregnant and lactating women are advised to discuss the possible risks and benefits of taking the drug with their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Procan SR dose?

If you have missed a Procan SR dose, take it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose can be skipped. Do not take a double dose.

If you are taking the medicine by injections, you are unlikely to miss a dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Procan SR overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Procan SR, seek emergency medical attention.

Procan SR interactions

Some drugs which may interact with Procan SR are: digoxin, cimetidine or other heat rhythm medicines such as morizicine, mexiletine, quinidine etc.

Other drugs may also interact with Procan SR. Hence it is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are taking, before using this drug.

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Procan SR side effects

Side effects from Procan SR include allergic reactions such as swelling of tongue, face, throat; hives, redness of skin etc. as well as some serious symptoms such as troubled breathing, wheezing, chest pain, new or worsening irregular pattern of heartbeat, severe dizziness, unusual thoughts or behavior, hallucination, depression, jaundice, pain or swelling in joints with fever, depression, muscle pain, weakness, swollen glands, red spots on skin, signs of new infections—bruising, bleeding, loss of appetite, symptoms of flu, or stomach pain.

Stomach upset, diarrhea, mild dizziness, tiredness, itching are some less serious side effects of Procan SR.