Disopyramide

About Disopyramide

This belongs to the group of medicines known as anti-arrhythmics.

Disopyramide 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.

Disopyramide works by correcting irregular heartbeats to a normal rhythm and by slowing an overactive heart, especially after a heart attack.

Disopyramide is available in tablet, capsule and injection form. It is also available as modified release capsules, which means the medicine is released more slowly to give an even effect.

It is also sometimes known as: Isomide CR; Rythmodan; Rythmodan Retard. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before Taking Disopyramide

Before taking Disopyramide make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from heart, kidney, liver or prostate problems
• if you suffer from glaucoma
• if you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure) or hypotension (low blood pressure).
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Disopyramide

• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Take Disopyramide exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist
• Swallow the modified release form of Disopyramide whole with a glass of water.
• Do not stop taking Disopyramide, even if you begin to feel better without speaking to your doctor first. Stopping treatment may cause your symptoms to return.
• Try to take Disopyramide at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you miss a dose of Disopyramide 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.
• Disopyramide is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect you or someone else has taken an overdose of Disopyramide contact your doctor or 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.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside Disopyramide.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so that your progress can be monitored.
• You may experience dizziness, light-headedness or fainting, especially when you get up from a lying or sitting position. Getting up slowly may help.
• Disopyramide can cause dizziness and blurred vision. Make sure you know how you react to Disopyramide before you drive, use machinery or do other jobs that could be dangerous if you were to become dizzy or could not see properly.
• Alcohol will increase any feeling of dizziness. If you drink alcohol, only drink in moderation and be aware of its effects on you.
• Disopyramide can cause a dry mouth. If you experience this try chewing sugar-free gum, sucking sugar-free sweets or pieces of ice. If your mouth becomes too dry, discuss the problem with your doctor or pharmacist
• Disopyramide can also cause dry eyes. If this occurs discuss with your doctor whether you should use any drops (artificial tears) to relieve this.
• Disopyramide can make you sweat less. Take extra care not to become overheated during exercise or hot weather while you are taking Disopyramide.
• If you have diabetes it is important to check your blood sugar levels regularly as this medicine can cause low blood sugar. Signs of low blood sugar include: excessive hunger, cold sweats, sickness, shakiness. If you think that this may be a problem, eat or drink a food containing sugar and consult your doctor.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the doctor, dentist or surgeon you are taking Disopyramide.

Can Disopyramide cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. These usually go away as your body adjusts to the new medicine. If any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome speak with your pharmacist or doctor.

Dry mouth, blurred vision, difficulty in urinating, upset tummy, a fast heartbeat, or confusion.

Important:If you experience any jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) contact your doctor immediately.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Disopyramide

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Do not keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 21/02/2005