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Rythmol Side Effects

Generic name: propafenone

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 25, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Rythmol Side Effects associated with propafenone. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Rythmol.

Applies to propafenone: oral capsule extended release, oral tablet.

Important warnings This medicine can cause some serious health issues

Oral route (tablet; capsule, extended release)

It is prudent to consider any Class 1C antiarrhythmic to have a significant proarrhythmic risk in patients with structural heart disease.

Given the lack of any evidence that these drugs improve survival, antiarrhythmic agents should generally be avoided in patients with non-life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, even if the patients are experiencing unpleasant, but not life-threatening, symptoms or signs.

Precautions

It is important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure the medicine is working properly. This will allow for changes to be made in the amount of medicine you are taking, if necessary.

This medicine can cause changes in your heart rhythm, such as conditions called PR, QRS, or QT prolongation. It may cause fainting or serious side effects in some patients. Contact your doctor right away if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

Check with your doctor right away if you develop any of the following: chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling of your hands, ankles, or feet, or weight gain. These may be symptoms of heart failure.

This medicine can temporarily lower the number of white blood cells in your blood, increasing the chance of getting an infection. If you can, avoid people with infections. Check with your doctor immediately if you think you are getting an infection or if you get a fever or chills, cough or hoarseness, lower back or side pain, or painful or difficult urination.

Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests.

Propafenone may cause some people to become dizzy or lightheaded. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy.

If you have been using this medicine regularly for several weeks, do not suddenly stop using it. Check with your doctor for the best way to gradually reduce the amount you are taking before stopping completely.

This medicine may decrease the amount of sperm men make. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about this.

Grapefruits and grapefruit juice may increase the effects of propafenone (the active ingredient contained in Rythmol) by increasing the amount of this medicine in your body. You should not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while you taking this medicine.

Tell your doctor if you are smoking tobacco.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

Common side effects of Rythmol

Some side effects of propafenone may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

  • change in taste or bitter or metallic taste

Less common side effects

  • blurred vision
  • constipation
  • diarrhea
  • dryness of the mouth
  • headache
  • nausea or vomiting
  • skin rash
  • unusual tiredness or weakness

Serious side effects of Rythmol

Along with its needed effects, propafenone may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking propafenone:

Less common side effects

  • chest pain
  • fast, irregular, or slow heartbeat
  • lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting
  • shortness of breath
  • swelling of the feet or lower legs
  • weight gain

Rare side effects

  • chills
  • fever
  • joint pain
  • trembling or shaking
  • weakness

For healthcare professionals

Applies to propafenone: oral capsule extended release, oral tablet.

General adverse events

Adverse reactions occurred most commonly in the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Gastrointestinal

Nervous system

Respiratory

Other

Dermatologic

Genitourinary

Hepatic

Immunologic

Metabolic

Ocular

Psychiatric

Endocrine

Hematologic

Renal

Musculoskeletal

See also:

References

1. "Product Information. Rythmol (propafenone)." Knoll Pharmaceutical Company

2. (2011) "Product Information. Rythmol SR (propafenone)." GlaxoSmithKline

Further information

Rythmol side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.