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Home > Medicines & Drugs > Propafenone

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Propafenone

  • Propafenone is used to treat irregular beating of the heart.
  • Propafenone tablets should be taken with a glass of water, swallowed whole (not crushed or chewed) with or after food.

About propafenone

Type of medicineAnti-arrhythmics
Used forIrregular beating of the heart
Also calledArythmol
Available asTablets

Propafenone is used to treat arrhythmias within the heart. An arrhythmia is an irregularity in the heartbeat, which causes the heart to skip a beat, beat irregularly, beat very fast or very slow. Propafenone works by correcting irregular heartbeats to a normal rhythm and by slowing an overactive heart, especially after a heart attack.

Before taking propafenone

Before taking propafenone make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you suffer from heart, liver or kidney problems.
  • If you suffer from asthma, other breathing problems or myasthenia gravis (muscle weakening disease).
  • If you have a pacemaker fitted.

How to take propafenone

  • Propafenone tablets should be taken with a glass of water, swallowed whole (not crushed or chewed) with or after food.
  • Try to take this medicine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
  • If you miss a dose of propafenone take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue taking it at the usual times. Never take two doses at the same time to compensate. If in doubt speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Keep your regular appointments with your doctor, so your progress can be checked.

Can propafenone cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicineWhat can I do if I experience this
ConstipationTry to eat a well balanced diet containing plenty of fibre and drink 6-8 glasses of water each day. If constipation continues to be a problem speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
Blurred visionMake sure you are not affected before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you could not see properly.
Dry mouthTry chewing sugar-free gum, sucking pieces of ice or sugar-free sweets. If this becomes troublesome speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
Dizziness (when standing up)Stand up from a sitting or lying position slowly, if you continue to feel dizzy sit down again until it passes.
Make sure you are not affected before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were dizzy.
Feeling sick or being sickDrink plenty of liquid. Stick to simple foods such as dry toast. If vomiting continues to be a problem speak to your doctor.
TirednessIf this continues speak with your doctor.
DiarrhoeaDrink plenty of water to replace lost fluids. If diarrhoea continues to be a problem speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
HeadacheAsk your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If headache continues speak with your doctor.
Bitter taste in the mouthSucking sugar-free sweets or chewing sugar-free gum may help to mask this.
Skin rashSpeak to your doctor if this occurs.

How to store propafenone

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
© EMIS 2007DocID:
1479		DocRef:
dils2441		Last Reviewed:
19 Jul 2007		Version:
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