Tocainide Hydrochloride (By Mouth)
Tocainide Hydrochloride (toe-KAY-nide hye-droe-KLOR-ide)
Treats irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). Belongs to the group of drugs called class antiarrhythmics.
Brand Name(s):Tonocard
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 had an allergic reaction to tocainide, mexiletine, or lidocaine in the past. How to Use This Medicine:
Tablet
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Take this medicine exactly as your doctor ordered, even if you feel fine.
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May be taken with food or milk to lessen stomach upset.
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You may need to carry identification saying that you are taking tocainide. Ask you doctor about this.
If a dose is missed:
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Take the missed dose as soon as you can, unless you are more than 4 hours late.
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If more than 4 hours late, skip the missed dose and take your medicine at your usual time.
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You should not use two doses at the same time.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
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Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
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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.
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Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking cimetidine (Tagamet®), or other heart medicines such as Inderal® or Lopressor®.
Warnings While Using This Medicine:
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Check with your doctor before taking tocainide if you have heart (congestive heart failure), kidney, or liver disease.
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Tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking tocainide before having any kind of surgery.
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Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine without checking with your doctor.
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Talk with your doctor before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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Tocainide makes some people 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:
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Fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
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Chest pain
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Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
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Wheezing or coughing
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Yellowing of the skin or eyes
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Blurred vision
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Fever, chills, or sore throat
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Mouth sores, unusual bruising or bleeding
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Skin rash, severe itching or hives
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Blisters, scaling or peeling of skin
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
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Dizziness, lightheadedness, or drowsiness
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Headache or confusion
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Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
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Diarrhea
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Sweating, trembling, or shaking
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
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