Mexitil
Mexiletine
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Mexitil
Mexitil is an anti arrhythmic medicine. It causes normalization of heart beat. Arrhythmia may be higher pulse rate type or low pulse rate type and Mexitil can treat both the types. Arrhythmias can be seen in otherwise healthy individuals though it is usually due to drug or disease.
Therapeutic Uses of Mexitil
Mexitil is used in the treatment of arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms) and to maintain normal heart rate.
Direction of use of Mexitil
Mexitil should be taken with food, milk or antacid to prevent gastric irritation and stomach upset. Take it with a glass full of water, unless your doctor directs otherwise. You should not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking the medicine.
Mexitil works best if there is a constant level of it in the blood and to maintain a constant level in the blood it should be taken at the same time every day and exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop the medicine without consulting your doctor. If you stop suddenly it may cause some problem.
If You Miss a Dose of Mexitil
Take any missed dose as soon as possible but not if it is almost time for the next dose. If it is almost time for the next dose than skip the missed dose of Mexitil and keep taking the medicine as usual regular dose. Do not take two doses of it at a time.
How to Store Mexitil
Mexitil should be stored at room temperature (68 to 77 degree C). Store it in a tightly closed container and away from direct sun light, moisture and heat. Do not store Mexitil in your bathroom. Keep it out of reach of children.
More Information About Mexitil
You may be required to check your pulse rate every day during medication with Mexitil. You should learn how to check your own pulse rate. Laboratory and medical tests like complete blood counts, liver function tests etc. should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor if you have any question about the medicine.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Mexitil
- Mexitil it self may produce new arrhythmias though it is used in the treatment of it. So patients should be selected carefully for treatment with Mexitil. Consult your doctor if you have any question about it.
- During pregnancy Mexitil should only be used if it is clearly indicated. Discuss about benefits and risks of Mexitil during pregnancy. It is secreted in the breast milk and you should consult your doctor before breast feeding to avoid any harm to your baby.
- You should inform your medical history to your doctor, especially if you have any history like blood disorders (leukopenia, thrombocytopenia), CHF (congestive heart failure), low blood pressure, liver disease, history of seizures, any allergies like allergy to amide type anesthetics (lidocaine, tocainamide) etc.
Possible Adverse Effects of Mexitil
- Common and minor side effects of Mexitil are nausea, mild vomiting, dizziness, headache, heart burn, depression, tremor, changes in vision, nervousness, confusion, fatigue, changes in sleep habits, numbness or tingling of the hands and/or feet, ringing in the ears (tinnitus) etc. If these symptoms persists and become troublesome you should inform your doctor.
- Notify your doctor if you develop any of the serious symptoms like chest pain, rapid heartbeat (palpitation), general weakness, yellowing of the eyes or skin, fever, sore throat, easy bruising and bleeding etc.
- An allergic reaction to Mexitil is unlikely, but if you get any allergic reaction to it, you should consult your doctor immediately. Symptoms of allergic reactions are rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, difficulty in breathing etc.
- If you develop any side effect that is not mentioned above, consult your doctor urgently.
Comments