What is the most important information I should know about flecainide?
You should not use this medicine if you have a serious heart condition such as bundle branch block or AV block (without a pacemaker), or if your heart cannot pump blood properly.
You may receive your first dose in a hospital or clinic setting to quickly treat any serious side effects.
What is flecainide?
Flecainide is a Class IC anti-arrhythmic that is used in certain situations to prevent serious heart rhythm disorders.
Flecainide may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking flecainide?
You should not use flecainide if you are allergic to it, or if:
- you have a serious heart condition such as bundle branch block or AV block (unless you have a pacemaker); or
- your heart cannot pump blood properly.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- a heart attack;
- chronic atrial fibrillation, or "AFib";
- congestive heart failure;
- a heart condition called "sick sinus syndrome";
- an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood); or
- liver disease.
It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It may not be safe to breast-feed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.
How should I take flecainide?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
You may receive your first few doses in a hospital or clinic setting to quickly treat any serious side effects.
Your heart rate will be monitored using an electrocardiograph or ECG (sometimes called an EKG). This will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with flecainide.
You may also need frequent blood tests to check your liver or kidney function.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, slow heart rate, fainting, or seizure (convulsions).
What should I avoid while taking flecainide?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
What are the possible side effects of flecainide?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- fast or pounding heartbeats;
- fluttering in your chest, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness (like you might pass out);
- slow heart rate, weak pulse, slow breathing (breathing may stop);
- feeling short of breath;
- swelling, rapid weight gain;
- pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;
- fever, flu-like symptoms; or
- jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Common side effects may include:
- dizziness;
- vision problems;
- trouble breathing;
- headache;
- nausea; or
- feeling weak or tired.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect flecainide?
Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:
- digoxin;
- a diuretic or "water pill";
- a beta-blocker (atenolol, metoprolol, propranolol, sotalol, and others);
- other heart medications such as amiodarone, diltiazem, disopyramide, nifedipine, quinidine, or verapamil; or
- seizure medication.
This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect flecainide, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.
Where can I get more information?
Your pharmacist can provide more information about flecainide.
