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Printable Version Rythmol

Active Ingredients: Propafenone
Other Names: Propafenone Hydrochloride Tablets, Rythmol Tablets
Drug Class: Anti-Arrhythmics
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are Rythmol?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?

What is/are Rythmol? (Back to top)
PROPAFENONE is an antiarrhythmic agent. It is used to treat irregular heart rhythm and can slow rapid heartbeats. This medicine can help your heart to return to and maintain a normal rhythm. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.


What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • heart disease
  • high blood levels of potassium
  • kidney disease
  • liver disease
  • low blood pressure
  • lung disease like asthma, chronic bronchitis or emphysema
  • pacemaker
  • slow heart rate
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to propafenone, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take this medicine with or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.


What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.


What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)
Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

  • arsenic trioxide
  • certain antibiotics like clarithromycin, erythromycin, grepafloxacin, sparfloxacin, troleandomycin
  • cisapride
  • droperidol
  • levomethadyl
  • medicines for malaria like chloroquine or halofantrine
  • medicines to control heart rhythm
  • pentamidine
  • pimozide
  • ranolazine
  • ritonavir
  • sertindole
  • some medicines for treating depression or mental illness like amoxapine, haloperidol, maprotiline, pimozide, phenothiazines, tricyclic antidepressants
  • ziprasidone

This medicine may also interact with the following:
  • cimetidine
  • cyclosporine
  • digoxin
  • diuretics
  • local anesthetics
  • medicines for angina or high blood pressure
  • medicines for asthma or breathing difficulties like formoterol or salmeterol
  • rifampin
  • theophylline
  • warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.


What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • chest pain, palpitations
  • fever or chills
  • shortness of breath
  • swelling of feet or legs
  • trembling or shaking

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
  • blurred vision
  • changes in taste (a metallic or bitter taste)
  • constipation or diarrhea
  • dry mouth
  • headache
  • nausea or vomiting
  • tiredness or weakness

This list may not describe all possible side effects.


What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Your condition will be monitored closely when you first begin therapy. Often, this drug is first started in a hospital or other monitored health care setting. Once you are on maintenance therapy, visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Because your condition and use of this medicine carry some risk, it is a good idea to carry an identification card, necklace or bracelet with details of your condition, medications, and doctor or health care professional.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.

If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor or health care professional that you are taking this medicine.


Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.


Last Updated:March 23, 2006

COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company


Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.

  Additional Information

  Check Drug Interactions with Rythmol

  Learn how Rythmol is/are used to treat:
  • Atrial Fibrillation

      Test Yourself! If you currently take Rythmol, do you know everything that you need to know?

      Make your own printable Medication / Emergency Contact Card



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