What is mexiletine 150 mg used for?
Mexiletine belongs to the group of medicines known as antiarrhythmics. It is used to correct irregular heartbeats to a normal rhythm. Mexiletine produces its helpful effects by slowing nerve impulses in the heart and making the heart tissue less sensitive. Mexiletine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
What dosages does mexiletine come in?
MEXITIL® (mexiletine hydrochloride, USP) is an orally active antiarrhythmic agent available as 150 mg, 200 mg and 250 mg capsules.
How often can you take mexiletine?
Mexiletine comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken three times a day, every 8 hours. Some people may take it twice daily, every 12 hours, once their arrhythmias have been controlled with mexiletine. Mexiletine should be taken with food or an antacid to prevent stomach upset.
Why was mexiletine discontinued?
However, mexiletine treatment had to be discontinued permanently in 8 of 92 patients (9%) because of intolerable side effects. We conclude that the added efficacy and possible improved arrhythmia-free survival associated with combining mexiletine with a class Ia agent should be further investigated.
What happens if you take too much mexiletine?
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, drowsiness, confusion, feeling lightheaded, seizures, loss of consciousness, and a worsening irregular heartbeat. Other drugs may interact with mexiletine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Does mexiletine lower BP?
Does mexiletine affect blood pressure? Mexiletine can cause both higher and lower blood pressure, though rarely. If you already have low blood pressure issues, it’s important to be careful when starting this medication, since it can make the pressure go even lower.
How long can you take mexiletine?
Sixty-one patients (57%) have continued on mexiletine therapy for an average of 32.2 months (1 to 70 months). Outcome during long-term therapy was not related to drug dose, blood level, or presenting arrhythmia.
How long does it take for mexiletine to start working?
Mexiletine typically starts to work 2 or 3 hours after you take a dose. If you are in the hospital, you might get you a higher “loading dose” so that the medication kicks in faster.
Can mexiletine be used long-term?
We conclude that if therapy with mexiletine is carefully evaluated and individualized, the drug is effective and well tolerated during long-term use.
Is mexiletine still on the market?
MEXITIL (mexiletine hydrochloride) capsules, 150 mg, 200 mg, and 250 mg, are currently listed in the “Discontinued Drug Product List” section of the Orange Book.
What is an alternative to mexiletine?
Tocainide (Tonocard – Astra) is a new antiarrhythmic agent. Like mexiletine, it is chemically related to lignocaine and is active by mouth.
Is there an alternative to mexiletine?
Can mexiletine be used long term?
What is the alternative to mexiletine?
How long does it take for mexiletine to work?