What is propafenone (Rhythmol/Rhythmol SR)?
Rhythmol/Rhythmol SR are brand names for the medication propafenone. Propafenone is used to treat patients who have abnormal heartbeats (arrhythmias).
How do I take propafenone?
You may start taking propafenone in the hospital so your doctor can see how the medication affects you.
Propafenone comes in tablet form. Check the label of your prescription bottle and take the medication exactly as directed. If you have any questions about how to take your medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
It is important to keep a steady level of propafenone in your body. Take the medication at the same times each day. NEVER stop taking this drug without first talking with your doctor. If you suddenly stop taking propafenone, your heartbeat may become irregular.
You can take propafenone with or without food.
It is important to keep all your appointments with your doctor and the lab. You may need exams, electrocardiograms (EKGs) and blood tests to see how well the medication is working. Your doctor may change your dose, especially if you have side effects.
Do I need to follow a special diet while I am taking this medication?
Foods and salt substitutes that contain potassium can affect the way propafenone works. Ask your doctor if you need to make changes to your diet.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of propafenone, call your doctor’s office as soon as you realize you missed the dose to find out what to do. Do not take a double dose.
Make sure you always have enough medication. Check your supply before holidays, vacations and other times when you may not be able to get a refill.
What side effects can propafenone cause?
Call your doctor right away if:
- You get very drowsy or have a slow heartbeat. Stop taking the medication and call your doctor right away.
- Your heartbeat gets faster, more irregular or if you feel faint.
- You have chest pain, blurred vision or swollen feet/ankles.
Let your doctor know if you have the following symptoms that are severe or don't go away:
- Nausea, vomiting, heartburn, constipation, headache or a strange taste in your mouth.
- Feel dizzy. Try getting up slowly after sitting or lying down. Be careful when doing things that require you to be alert.
Information to share with your doctor before you take propafenone
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- If you have kidney, liver or respiratory disease, diabetes, heart failure or if you have a pacemaker.
- Tell your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements you take.
- Ask your doctor if it is okay to drink alcohol while you are taking propafenone.
If you need to have surgery, including oral surgery, tell your surgeon that you take propafenone.
How should I store propafenone?
- Keep propafenone in the original bottle, and keep the lid tightly closed.
- Keep the medication at room temperature. Do not keep the bottle near sunlight or moisture. Do not keep the medication in the bathroom.
- Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
- Never use expired medications. Many prescription bottles list an expiration date. If you don’t know how old your medication is or when it expires, call your pharmacy.
If you have any questions or concerns about taking this medication, please call your doctor or pharmacist.
