$Unique_ID{BRK03237}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{mexiletine}
$Subject{Mexitil Boehringer Ingelheim Antiarrhythmic mexiletine arrhythmias
irregular heart rhythms heartbeats rhythm}
$Volume{}
$Log{}

Copyright (C) 1993 Publications International, Ltd.


mexiletine
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BRAND NAME (Manufacturer)

     Mexitil (Boehringer Ingelheim)

TYPE OF DRUG

     Antiarrhythmic

INGREDIENT

     mexiletine

DOSAGE FORM

     Capsules (150 mg, 200 mg, and 250 mg)

STORAGE

     Mexiletine should be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed
container.  It should not be exposed to high temperatures.

USES

     Mexiletine is used to treat arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms).  This
medication works through the suppression of irregular heartbeats and the
establishment of a more normal rhythm.

TREATMENT

     Mexiletine can be taken with meals or an antacid to decrease stomach
irritation.
     Try to take mexiletine at the same times each day.  This medication is
most effective when the amount of the drug in your bloodstream is kept at a
constant level.  Mexiletine should, therefore, be taken at evenly spaced
intervals day and night.  For example, if you are supposed to take mexiletine
three times per day, the doses should be spaced eight hours apart.  Your
doctor can determine the best dose of mexiletine for you by measuring the
amount in your blood.  You may need periodic blood tests for this reason.
     If you miss a dose of this medication and remember within four hours (if
you are taking it three times per day) or within six hours (if you are taking
it two times per day), take the missed dose and then return to your regular
dosing schedule.  If more than that time has passed, do not take the missed
dose; just return to your regular dosing schedule.  Do not double the next
dose.

SIDE EFFECTS

     Minor.

     Abdominal pain, altered taste, changes in appetite, constipation,
diarrhea, dizziness, dry skin, fatigue, fluid accumulation, headaches,
heartburn, hiccups, hot flashes, light-headedness, nausea, nervousness,
sleeping problems, slowed heart rate, sweating, vomiting, or weakness.  These
side effects should disappear as your body adjusts to the medication.
     You may experience constipation when taking this drug.  To relieve
constipation, increase the amount of fiber in your diet (fresh fruits and
vegetables, salads, bran, and whole-grain breads), exercise, and drink more
water (unless your doctor directs you to do otherwise).
     If you become dizzy, sit or lie down for a while; get up slowly from a
sitting or reclining position, and be careful on stairs.

     Major.

     Tell your doctor about any side effects that are persistent or
particularly bothersome.  IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about
black or tarry stools, chest pain, confusion, coordination difficulties,
depression, difficult or painful urination, fainting, fever, hair loss,
impotence, palpitations, psychological changes, rash, ringing in the ears,
seizures, shortness of breath, speech difficulties, tingling or numbness in
the hands or feet, trembling of the hands, or visual disturbances.

INTERACTIONS

     Mexiletine interacts with several other types of medications:
     1. Acetazolamide, sodium bicarbonate, or high doses of antacids can
decrease the elimination of mexiletine from the body, which can increase the
risks of side effects.
     2. Cimetidine can increase the blood levels of mexiletine, which can
increase the risks of side effects.
     3. Phenytoin, rifampin, and phenobarbital can decrease the blood levels
of mexiletine, which can decrease its effectiveness.
     Before starting mexiletine, BE SURE TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about any
medications you are currently taking, especially any of those listed above.

WARNINGS

     * Tell your doctor about any unusual or allergic reactions you have had
to any medications, especially to mexiletine.
     * Before taking mexiletine, tell your doctor if you now have or if you
have ever had heart block, heart failure, liver disease, low blood pressure,
or seizures.
     * If this drug makes you dizzy or light-headed, do not take part in any
activity that requires alertness, such as driving a car.
     * Before having surgery or any other medical or dental treatment, be sure
to tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking mexiletine.
     * Do not take any over-the-counter (nonprescription) asthma, allergy,
sinus, cough, cold, or diet preparation without first checking with your
pharmacist or doctor.
     * Do not stop taking this drug without first consulting your doctor.
Stopping antiarrhythmics abruptly may cause a serious change in the activity
of your heart.  Your doctor may, therefore, want to reduce your dosage
gradually.
     * Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant.  Although mexiletine
appears to be safe in animals, studies in pregnant women have not been
conducted.  Also, tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding an infant.  Small
amounts of mexiletine pass into human breast milk.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.