Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Propafenone is employed in the treatment of arrhythmia, addressing irregular heartbeats and supporting the maintenance of a normal heart rate. Categorized as an antiarrhythmic medication, propafenone operates by affecting the heart muscle to enhance the rhythm of the heart.
Uses and Dosage
Propafenone is available in tablet and extended-release (long-acting) capsule forms for oral administration. The tablet is typically taken three times a day at intervals of every 8 hours, while the extended-release capsule is usually taken twice a day, with intervals of every 12 hours, with or without food.
Take propafenone precisely as prescribed—avoid taking more or less of it or altering the frequency beyond your doctor’s recommendations.
When taking the extended-release capsules, swallow them whole; do not crush, open, or divide the contents into multiple doses.
Your doctor may initiate propafenone in a hospital setting initially, allowing close monitoring as your body adjusts to the medication. The starting dose may be low, with gradual increases, not more frequently than once every 5 days.
While propafenone may effectively control irregular heartbeats, it does not cure the condition. Continue taking propafenone even if you feel well. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor, as suddenly stopping propafenone may result in a recurrence of irregular heartbeats. Always follow your doctor’s guidance regarding the use and discontinuation of propafenone.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dizziness
- dry mouth
- headache
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- constipation
- loss of appetite
- unusual taste in the mouth
- gas
- tiredness
- anxiety
- blurred vision
- uncontrollable shaking of a part of the body
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- difficulty with coordination
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- difficulty breathing
- wheezing
- chest pain
- new or worsening irregular heartbeat
- slow, fast, or pounding heartbeat
- swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- sudden, unexplained weight gain
- fainting
- skin rash
- unexplained fever, chills, weakness, or sore throat
Caution
- Before initiating propafenone, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have to it or other substances. Inactive ingredients in the product may cause allergic reactions or other complications.
- Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of breathing problems, kidney problems, liver problems, myasthenia gravis, or a certain inherited heart condition known as Brugada Syndrome.
- Propafenone has the potential to cause QT prolongation, a condition affecting heart rhythm. This rare but serious side effect may lead to a fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms requiring immediate medical attention, such as severe dizziness or fainting. The risk of QT prolongation may be higher if you have certain medical conditions or are taking other drugs that can cause QT prolongation. Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the drugs you are taking and if you have certain heart problems, a family history of certain heart problems, or conditions that may lead to low potassium or magnesium levels in the blood.
- Propafenone may induce dizziness, and the use of alcohol or marijuana can intensify this effect. Avoid activities that require alertness until you can do them safely.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of propafenone, particularly QT prolongation.
- Propafenone can impact male fertility, so consult your doctor for more details.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only if clearly needed. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Propafenone passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while using this medication.
Form and Strength
Rythmol ER is available in the following forms and strengths:
propafenone extended-release capsule:
- 225 mg
FAQ
Is Rythmol ER a beta blocker?
Rythmol doesn’t belong to the class of medications called beta blockers. But Rythmol can cause similar side effects as beta-blockers, such as slowing your heart rate or lowering your blood pressure.
When is the best time of day to take Rythmol ER?
This medicine works best when there is a constant amount in the blood. It is best to take each dose at evenly spaced times day and night.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/propafenone/what-is#faqs
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/17390-antiarrhythmic-medication-propafenone
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/propafenone-oral-route/description/drg-20065687
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-91456/rythmol-sr-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a698002.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/rythmol-sr.html
