Flecainide
Flecainide is a Class IC antiarrhythmic drug used to treat serious, life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias and to manage paroxysmal atrial fibrillation or flutter. It works by blocking sodium channels in the heart, which slows down electrical conduction and helps normalize the heart’s rhythm. Due to potential proarrhythmic effects, its use is carefully monitored, especially in patients with structural heart disease.
What is Flecainide?
Flecainide is a prescription anti-arrhythmic medicine used to treat certain types of serious irregular heartbeats. Doctors often prescribe it to stabilize the heart rhythm in conditions like atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and certain ventricular arrhythmias. The medicine works by helping the heart beat more regularly, reducing episodes of palpitations, chest discomfort, and dizziness. Antiarrhythmic tablets are usually part of a long-term treatment plan and must be taken exactly as instructed by your healthcare provider.
Flecainide Used For
Flecainide tablets are used to manage and prevent abnormal heart rhythms such as:
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Atrial fibrillation (AFib)
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Atrial flutter
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Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT)
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Certain life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias
It helps restore a steady heartbeat, reduce symptoms, and prevent dangerous rhythm disturbances.
Chemical Composition
The active ingredient is Flecainide Acetate, a Class IC anti-arrhythmic agent. The tablet also contains inactive compounds that support stability, absorption, and consistent release of the medication.
Flecainide Mechanism
Flecainide works by blocking sodium channels in the heart. By slowing electrical signals, it prevents fast or irregular heartbeats. This helps maintain a normal rhythm, allowing the heart to pump blood more effectively.
How It Helps Improve Heart Rhythm
People with arrhythmias often experience sudden fast heartbeats, fluttering, and dizziness. Flecainide stabilizes electrical activity in the heart so these episodes occur less often. With regular use, it reduces the frequency and severity of rhythm problems, helping patients remain active and comfortable.
What Are the Other Benefits?
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Helps maintain long-term heart rhythm stability
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Reduces risk of sudden arrhythmia episodes
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Improves exercise tolerance
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Lessens palpitations and fatigue
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Available in easy-to-take oral tablets
Dosages
Your doctor determines the correct dose based on the type and severity of the arrhythmia, overall health, and response to treatment. Never change the dose without medical advice.
Available Strengths or Dosage
Flecainide tablets are commonly available in:
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50 mg
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100 mg
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150 mg
These strengths allow doctors to adjust the dose safely over time.
How and When to Take It
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Take the tablet with or without food
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Swallow whole with water
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Take at the same time each day to maintain stable levels
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Do not skip or double doses
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Your doctor may require ECG monitoring to check heart rhythm changes
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Keep track of symptoms and report sudden changes
Patients are often started on a lower dose and slowly increased if needed.
Overdose Caution
An overdose of Flecainide can be dangerous and may cause severe dizziness, fainting, vision problems, or life-threatening rhythm changes. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Who Can Use/Take Flecainide?
Flecainide is suitable for:
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Adults diagnosed with specific arrhythmias
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Patients who need long-term heart rhythm control
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People who have not responded well to other anti-arrhythmic medications
It is not recommended for:
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Individuals with structural heart disease
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People who recently had a heart attack
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Patients with uncontrolled heart failure
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Those with severe liver or kidney issues unless closely monitored
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Anyone allergic to Flecainide
Age, medical history, underlying heart conditions, and current medicines must be reviewed before starting therapy.
Side Effects & Precautions
What Are the Side Effects?
Common side effects may include:
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Dizziness
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Blurred vision
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Headache
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Fatigue
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Mild nausea
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Tremors
More serious effects, which require immediate medical attention, include:
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Worsening arrhythmia
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Shortness of breath
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Swelling in legs or feet
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Fainting
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Severe chest pain
What Are the Precautions to Avoid Side Effects?
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Take only the prescribed dose
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Attend regular ECG and medical checkups
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Inform your doctor if you have heart failure, kidney, or liver disease
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Do not combine with other anti-arrhythmic drugs unless approved
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Avoid alcohol and limit caffeine
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Report any unusual symptoms immediately
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Keep your doctor updated on all other medications and supplements
Proper monitoring helps ensure the medicine works safely and effectively.
Always consult your doctor before use. If prescribed, you can order Flecainide tablets online safely from trusted pharmacy sources and ensure timely refills to maintain a stable heart rhythm and overall heart health.