Mexiletine capsules

What is this medicine?

MEXILETINE (mex IL e teen) is an antiarrhythmic agent. This medicine is used to treat irregular heart rhythm and can slow rapid heartbeats. It can help your heart to return to and maintain a normal rhythm. Because of the side effects caused by this medicine, it is usually used for heartbeat problems that may be life-threatening.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. It is recommended that you take this medicine with food or an antacid. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• chest pain, continued irregular heartbeats

• rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes

• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

• seizures

• skin rash

• trembling, shaking

• unusual bleeding or bruising

• unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• blurred vision

• difficulty walking

• heartburn

• nausea, vomiting

• nervousness

• numbness, or tingling in the fingers or toes

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• dofetilide

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• caffeine

• cimetidine

• medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances

• medicines to control heart rhythm

• phenobarbital

• phenytoin

• rifampin

• theophylline

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• liver disease

• other heart problems

• previous heart attack

• an unusual or allergic reaction to mexiletine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your condition will be monitored closely when you first begin therapy. Often, this drug is first started in a hospital or other monitored health care setting. Once you are on maintenance therapy, visit your doctor or health care provider for regular checks on your progress. Because your condition and use of this medicine carry some risk, it is a good idea to carry an identification card, necklace or bracelet with details of your condition, medications, and doctor or health care provider.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more dizzy, increase flushing and rapid heartbeats. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

This medicine may cause serious skin reactions. They can happen weeks to months after starting the medicine. Contact your health care provider right away if you notice fevers or flu-like symptoms with a rash. The rash may be red or purple and then turn into blisters or peeling of the skin. Or, you might notice a red rash with swelling of the face, lips or lymph nodes in your neck or under your arms.