Flecainide Acetate

Generic Name: flecainide acetate

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Flecainide Acetate

Flecainide acetate is a Class IC antiarrhythmic drug available as 50, 100, or 150 mg oral tablets. It is a benzamide derivative with local anesthetic properties.

Overview

Flecainide acetate is a Class IC antiarrhythmic drug available as 50, 100, or 150 mg oral tablets. It is a benzamide derivative with local anesthetic properties.

Uses

Indicated for prevention of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardias (PSVT) and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter (PAF) with disabling symptoms in patients without structural heart disease, and for documented life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias such as sustained VT.

Dosage

Starting dose for PSVT/PAF: 50 mg every 12 hours, increased by 50 mg increments every four days. Maximum 300 mg/day for supraventricular arrhythmias. For sustained VT: start 100 mg every 12 hours, maximum 400 mg/day.

Side Effects

Most common adverse effects include dizziness (18.9%), visual disturbances (15.9%), dyspnea (10.3%), and headache (9.6%). Serious cardiac effects include new or worsened arrhythmias, heart failure, and conduction abnormalities.

Interactions

Increases digoxin levels 13-19%. With propranolol: flecainide increases approximately 20%, propranolol approximately 30%. Amiodarone may increase flecainide levels two-fold or more. Avoid concurrent disopyramide or verapamil.

Warnings

Drug can cause new or worsened arrhythmias. CAST trial showed excessive mortality (5.1% vs 2.3% placebo) in post-MI patients with asymptomatic arrhythmias. Not recommended for chronic atrial fibrillation or patients with recent MI. Contraindicated in pre-existing second- or third-degree AV block, bifascicular block without pacemaker, cardiogenic shock.

Pregnancy

Category C. Teratogenic effects observed in one rabbit breed. Should use only if potential benefit justifies fetal risk. Flecainide is excreted in breast milk.

Storage

Store at 20C to 25C (68F to 77F) in tight, light-resistant container.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Flecainide Acetate used for?

Indicated for prevention of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardias (PSVT) and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter (PAF) with disabling symptoms in patients without structural heart disease, and for documented life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias such as sustained VT.

What are the side effects of Flecainide Acetate?

Most common adverse effects include dizziness (18.9%), visual disturbances (15.9%), dyspnea (10.3%), and headache (9.6%). Serious cardiac effects include new or worsened arrhythmias, heart failure, and conduction abnormalities.

Can I take Flecainide Acetate during pregnancy?

Category C. Teratogenic effects observed in one rabbit breed. Should use only if potential benefit justifies fetal risk. Flecainide is excreted in breast milk.

What are the important warnings for Flecainide Acetate?

Drug can cause new or worsened arrhythmias. CAST trial showed excessive mortality (5.1% vs 2.3% placebo) in post-MI patients with asymptomatic arrhythmias. Not recommended for chronic atrial fibrillation or patients with recent MI. Contraindicated in pre-existing second- or third-degree AV block, bifascicular block without pacemaker, cardiogenic shock.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.