Tambocor (Flecainide)

What is Tambocor?

Tambocor is an anti-arrhythmic medicine which restores normal heart rhythm and treats certain types of serious irregular heartbeat.

What is Tambocor used for?

Tambocor is indicated for the restoration of normal heart rhythm. It maintains a regular, steady heartbeat. Treating irregular heartbeats can reduce the risk for blood clots. This prevents possibly fatal outcomes such as persistent ventricular tachycardia and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia, as well as reduces risk of heart attack or stroke.

How does Tambocor work?

Tambocor works by blocking certain electrical signals in the heart that can cause an irregular heartbeat.

How to use Tambocor

Tambocor should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. Taking the medicine for longer period or in larger amount than prescribed can be harmful.

Tambocor is usually taken twice daily or as directed by the doctor. The medicine can be taken with or without food. To get the most benefit it should be taken regularly, preferably at the same time each day.

Do not increase the dose or stop taking the medicine unless directed by your doctor.

Tambocor warnings and precautions

Tambocor should not be taken by patients who are allergic to flecainide, or have “AV block” (unless they have a pacemaker) or any other heart condition.

Before using Tambocor, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any other drug, or if you have a heart condition called “sick sinus syndrome”, congestive heart failure, electrolyte imbalance, kidney or liver disease, or if you had a heart attack in the past 2 years.

Pregnant and lactating women are advised to take this medicine only after taking doctor’s permission.  Inform your doctor if you plan to conceive or if you become pregnant during treatment.

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

If you have missed a Tambocor dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the routine. Do not take an extra dose to make up the missed dose.

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

If you have taken an overdose of Tambocor, consult your doctor right away.

Tambocor interactions

Before taking Tambocor, inform your doctor about all the prescription and non prescription drugsthat you are taking, including some herbal medicines or vitamins and mineral supplements that you may be using. Some drugs might interact with Tambocor. A list of such drugs include digoxin, cimetidine, verapamil, diuretic, other heart rhythm medicines, seizure medications, or beta blockers.

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

Tambocor side effects

Side effects from Tambocor include allergic reactions such as hives, breathing difficulty, swelling, weak pulse, slow heart rate, dizziness, fainting, slow breathing, fast/ pounding heartbeat; shortness of breath, swelling, rapid weight gain, muscle weakness, tingling, leg discomfort, confusion, increased thirst and increased urination, limp feeling, pale skin, bruising, bleeding, or jaundice.

Dizziness, tremors, shaking, anxiety, depression, headache, vision problems, nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, numbness, tingly feeling, constipation, or diarrhea are some less serious side effects of Tambocor.