Mexiletine is used to treat certain severe heartbeat abnormalities.
What is Mexiletine?
Mexiletine is a antiarrhythmic drug. It works by stabilizing the heart rhythm.
How should Mexiletine be taken?
Mexiletine is administered orally. It should be taken on a full stomach or with antacids.
Side effects associated with Mexiletine
Among the possible side effects of mexiletine include the following:
- Tarnished vision
- Clumsiness
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Coordination problems
- Nausea
- Nervousness
- Stomach discomfort
- Tremors
- Vomiting
It is important to contact a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest or chest pain
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue
- Vision problems
- Fainting
- Fever
- Rapid, slow or irregular heartbeat
- Severe dizziness or lightheadedness
- Severe stomach pain
- Sore throat
- Jaundice
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Mexiletine
Mexiletine is contraindicated in case of cardiogenic shock, in the absence of a pacemaker, or in case of second or third degree atrioventricular block.
The intake of the drug can impair the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery. This side effect may be aggravated by alcohol and certain other medications.
Before starting treatment with mexiletine, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or to any other drugs, food or various substances
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: cimetidine, hydantoins, phenobarbital, rifampin, caffeine, lidocaine or theophylline
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from other heart problems, congestive heart failure, low blood pressure, liver problems or seizures
- You are wearing a pacemaker
- You are pregnant or breast-feeding
Treatment should not be stopped abruptly without first consulting with a doctor.
It is important to inform physicians, surgeons and dentists of any ongoing treatment with mexiletine.
