Mexitil

Mexitil is an antiarrhythmic that is primarily used to normalize irregular heartbeats.

It works by slowing down nerve impulses in the heart, as well as making the tissues of the heart less sensitive. The drug can only be obtained with a doctor’s prescription.

If you are about to start Mexitil, speak with your doctor about what you need to know. The risks and benefits the medicine offer must be weighed.

For Mexitil, you and your doctor must consider the following:

Allergies. If you have any unusual reaction to any medicine, including mexiletine, be sure to tell your doctor about it. Additionally, disclose other types of allergies - foods, preservatives, animals, or dyes, if there are any. Read the package ingredients carefully and make sure you are not allergic to any of its ingredients.

Pediatric. Scientific studies concerning the medicine are done only in adults. Therefore, there is no specific directions or indications of the use of mexiletine in children.

Geriatric. It is not known if mexiletine has the same effects in older adults as with young adults.

Pregnancy. While there are no adequate studies done in pregnant women, animal studies show an adverse effect.

Breastfeeding. Studies in lactating mothers suggest that mexiletine poses minimal risk to a breastfeeding infant.

Drug Interactions. Certain medicines have adverse effects when used together. Make sure to inform your doctor about other drugs you are taking, so that alterations and precautions will be made if necessary.

Before taking Mexitil, talk to your doctor about possible interactions if you are taking one or more of the following:

• Amiodarone
• Anagrelide
• Bupropion
• Clozapine
• Cobicistat
• Dasabuvir
• Disopyramide
• Eltrombopag
• Etravirine
• Lidocaine
• Ombitasvir
• Paritaprevir
• Paroxetine
• Pirfenidone
• Pixantrone
• Prilocaine
• Quinidine
• Simeprevir
• Theophylline
• Tizanidine

Using mexiletine with the medicines listed above may increase the risk of certain side effects. However, the combination of these medicines may be best for you.

Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects and if there are other alternative treatment available. Moreover, if you are drinking alcohol or smoking tobacco, side effects may occur. Talk to your doctor about it.

Other medical problems. The effect of the medicine may be altered if you have other medical problems.

Disclose any medical issues to your doctor, especially if you have congestive heart failure, low blood pressure, liver disease, seizures, or have had a heart attack.

To use Mexitil properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor, regardless if you are feeling well. Do not alter the dosage. Mexitil may cause stomach upset, so it is advisable to take it after meals or with milk. Taking it with an antacid may also be done.

Mexitil works best when a constant amount in blood is maintained. To make sure of this, doses should be timed perfectly and be certain to not miss a dose.

For instance, doses should be 8 hours apart if you have to take it 3 times a day. Talk to your doctor if the dosing interferes with your sleep and daily activities.

Dosing:

The dose of mexiletine depends on the patient's age, weight, and symptoms, as well as the strength of the medicine.

Do not change the dosage the doctor indicated unless he or she told you otherwise. The number of doses and the number of hours between doses generally depend on the reason why you are taking mexiletine.

Generally, dosage will be as follows:

• For arrhythmias, adults may start with 200 mg every eight hours. The dosage may be lowered or increased as needed, as per doctor’s advice.
• Children’s dose, on the other hand, may be determined by computing the weight and age.

Missed dose:

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. In case it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and follow your regular dosing schedule. Never take double doses.

Storage:

Keep the medicine in an airtight container at normal room temperature. Keep it away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Do not let it freeze. Keep the medicine out of children’s reach.

Before using Mexitil, there are some precautions you must take. Regular checkups are important to make sure Mexitil is properly working, allowing changes in the dosage if necessary.

Your doctor may advise you to wear a medical bracelet that states you are using this medicine.

In case you will need to undergo emergency treatment or any kind of surgery (including dental procedures), inform your medical practitioner that you are taking the medicine.

Mexiletine may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and reduced alertness to some people. Therefore, you must take extra precautions when driving or using machines.

Make sure you meet with your doctor in using Mexitil to avoid unwanted potential side effects. Side effects may occur, but may also go away as the body adjusts to treatment. You may report the side effects of Mexitil to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088.

Serious side effects include:

• Allergic reaction
• A new irregular heartbeat pattern
• Chest pain, wheezing, coughing, or discomfort in the chest
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Fever and sore throat, sore mouth, infection, or mouth ulcers

Stop taking the drug when you experience the serious side effects listed above. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Less serious side effects include:

• Lightheadedness, tiredness, dizziness
• Dry mouth’
• Poor coordination
• Heartburn, upset stomach, vomiting, decreased appetite
• diarrhea/constipation
• Blurred vision
• Headache
• Weakness
• Tremors and numbness
• Ringing in the ears
• Depression

If you experience one or more of the less serious side effects, continue taking the medicine and talk to your doctor about the side effects on your next visit.