Propafenone is an antiarrhythmic drug developed by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration and initially approved for treating arrhythmias.

Propafenone is used to treat atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter, which are types of irregular heart rhythms that originate in the upper chambers of the heart (atria). This drug is not recommended for children.

Take the Propafenone as advised by your physician. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Propafenone are anxiety, difficulty sleeping, headache, change in taste, blurred vision, abnormal heart rhythm, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, liver disorders, chest pain, tiredness or weakness, fever, dizziness, and irregular heartbeat. Some serious side effects include rash, itching, redness, breathing difficulty, yellowing of the skin or eyes, unusual bruising, sore throat, and changes in blood cell count.

Before taking Propafenone, inform your doctor if you have any heart conditions or a history of myasthenia gravis, hypotension, liver problems, lung conditions, and allergies to any medications. This drug may cause dizziness or lightheadedness. Avoid activities requiring mental alert until you know how the medication affects you. Consumption of grapefruit juice should be avoided. If you are scheduled for surgery or dental procedures, it's important to inform your surgeon or dentist that you are taking this medicine. This is because the medication might interact with the anesthesia used during the procedure. 

Your doctor may suggest electrocardiograms (ECGs or EKGs) and blood pressure monitoring before and during your treatment with Propafenone. These tests help monitor your heart's electrical activity and blood pressure to assess how the medication is affecting your heart rhythm and overall cardiovascular health Inform your physician if you are pregnant, suspect pregnancy, or planning to become pregnant. It is unknown if this medicine passes into the breast milk. Please consult your doctor before breastfeeding. 

Do not stop taking Propafenone suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to a rebound increase in arrhythmias or other complications. Keep all appointments with your physician to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment as needed. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding dietary restrictions and lifestyle changes while taking this drug.

1. Mylan Products Ltd, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on March 2021] [Accessed on 28th August 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.3260.pdf
2. KD Tripathi, Antiarrhythmic Drugs, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 570-583.
3. Robert D. Harvey, Augustus O. Grant, Agents Used in Cardiac Arrhythmias, Lange’s Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 228-253.

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.