RYTHMOL (PROPAFENONE)

Rythmol Description

Rythmol or the generic alternative called Propafenone is an antiarrhythmic drug prescribed to restore a normal heart rhythm for those people with atrial fibrillation (Afib) or paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT), both of which can be potentially life-threatening. Once diagnosed with an arrhythmia problem, your doctor may recommend taking Rythmol under careful monitoring with regular blood tests, and electrocardiograms to track the progress. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Rythmol Helps Restore a Regular Heart Rate

When taken as directed, Rythmol works as a sodium channel blocker in that it corrects the abnormal rhythms of your heart by obstructing the movement of sodium through the channels in the cell membranes of your heart muscle tissue which will slow the electrical impulses so your heart will begin beating properly. Rythmol is not a cure for these heart conditions but it can help to maintain a regular heart rate in order to lower other health risks, such as a blood clot, stroke, or heart attack.

Conditions Treated by Rythmol

Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of irregular heartbeat that can cause an interruption in your blood flow. Afib affects the atria, which is the upper chambers of your heart. The rapid fire of your heartbeats can interfere with the organized contractions of the atria and can result in blood pooling within your heart and possibly causing a clot to form which can travel to your brain and cause a stroke.

Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) is a rapid heart rate that occurs from time to time. This condition happens more commonly in children and young adults as opposed to older people and can be aggravated by smoking, using illegal drugs, and drinking alcohol or caffeinated drinks. As your hearts’ sinus node sends an electrical signal for your heart to contract, there is a short circuit that causes your heart to beat more often than normal. PSVT can also be caused by a condition called Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome in children and infants due to an extra electrical pathway.

Before You Take Rythmol

Tell your doctor about other medical conditions and allergies you have and provide a list of all OTC and Rx medications you are taking, including vitamin supplements and herbal preparations so it can be determined if Rythmol is safe for you to take. Let your doctor know if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant or are breast feeding before starting Rythmol. There is limited clinical information to indicate whether there is a chance for harming your unborn or nursing baby so it may only be prescribed if the benefits outweigh the risks.

Precautions and Recommendations for Rythmol

Until you know how Rythmol will affect your body, you should not drive or operate machinery. Rythmol can lower your ability to fight infections so you should avoid large crowds where you could pick up an infection or a cold. Inform your doctor, surgeon, or dentist if you are scheduled for any medical or dental procedures or surgery. If you experience muscle weakness, chest pain, confusion, or vision problems, seek medical care immediately.

Possible Side Effects of Rythmol

• Constipation or diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea