Rythmol (Propafenone)

What is Rythmol?

Rythmol belongs to a class of medications called Class IC anti-arrhythmics, which affects the pace at which the heart beats.

What is Rythmol used for?

Rythmol is indicated for the treatment of certain kinds of irregular heartbeat related problems, such as paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia or atrial fibrillation. These conditions, if not treated in time can prove to be fatal. The medicine helps restore normal heart rhythm and maintain steady heartbeat. It also helps lower the risk of heart attack and stroke by preventing the risk of formation of blood clots.

How does Rythmol work?

Rythmol works by hindering certain electrical signals in the heart, which can cause irregular heartbeats.

How to use Rythmol

Take Rythmol in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer period or in larger amount than recommended can cause health ailments.

The medicine is to be taken twice daily (after every 12 hours) and can be taken with or without food. Do not break, chew, or crush the capsules. Swallow it whole. Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day.

Get your blood tested on a regular basis.

Rythmol warnings and precautions

Rythmol is not to be used by people who are allergic to propafenone. Also, persons who have certain heart conditions which are serious in nature (such as AV block – without a pacemaker or sick sinus syndrome), uncontrolled or untreated congestive heart failure, extremely low blood pressure, breathing disorder, or electrolyte imbalance should never use this medicine.

Prior to taking Rythmol, inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, arthritis, lupus, myasthenia gravis, congestive heart failure, or a recent history of heart attack (in the past 25 months).

Do not consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice, while you are on the dosing schedule of Rythmol.

Pregnant women should seek permission from their doctors before taking this medicine. If you plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor in advance. Lactating mothers should not consume Rythmol as it may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing infant.

What do I do if I have missed a Rythmol dose?

If you have missed a Rythmol dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Rythmol overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Rythmol, you should seek medical help immediately.

Rythmol interactions

Before taking Rythmol, tell your doctor about all prescribed and non prescribed dosages that you are on, especially if you have been taking cimetidine, digoxin, quinidine, ketoconazole, rifampin, orlistat, blood thinner like warfarin (Coumadin), antidepressants, HIV or AIDS medications, beta blockers, heart rhythm medications, or medicines used for the treatment of psychiatric disorders.

Do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Rythmol side effects

Rythmol side effects include hives, breathing trouble, shortness of breath, slow heart rate, fainting, weak pulse, slow breathing, rapid weight gain, swelling, pale skin, bruising, bleeding, confusion, seizure, unusual behavior or thoughts, swelling on lips, face, tongue, or throat. Contact your doctor right away if any of these symptoms persist.

Mild nausea, vomiting, dizziness, constipation, fatigue, ringing in the ears, headache, blurred vision, unusual dreams, unpleasant or unusual taste in the mouth, warmth, redness, or tingling under the skin are some less serious side effects of Rythmol.