Flecainide Acetate (By Mouth)

Flecainide Acetate (fle-KAY-nide AS-e-tate)

Treats irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias). Belongs to a class of drugs called class antiarrhythmics.

Brand Name(s):

Tambocor
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to flecainide. This drug should not be taken if you have certain heart disorders - check with your doctor.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
• Take this medicine exactly as your doctor ordered, even if you feel fine.
• May be taken with food, milk, or antacids to avoid stomach upset.
• You may need to carry identification stating that you are taking flecainide. Ask your doctor about this.

If a dose is missed:

• If you take your medicine 2 times a day and you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible unless you are more than 6 hours late.
• If you are more than 6 hours late, skip the missed dose, and take your medicine at your usual time.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Tell your doctor if you are taking any other heart medicines such as Lanoxin®, Cordarone®, or Rythmol®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Check with your doctor before taking if you have kidney or liver disease, a recent heart attack, or if you have a pacemaker.
• Tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking flecainide before having any kind of surgery.
• Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without talking to your doctor. You may need to take smaller and smaller doses before completely stopping the medicine.
• Talk with your doctor before taking flecainide if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Flecainide may make you dizzy or drowsy. Be careful if you drive a car or operate machinery.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Irregular heartbeat
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
• Fever or chills
• Skin rash, severe itching or hives
• Yellowing of skin or eyes

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Stomach cramps or loss of appetite
• Trembling or shaking
• Tiredness or weakness
• Vision changes such as trouble focusing or seeing spots

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.