Drug NameMexitil (Mexiletine) Drug UsesThis medication is used to treat irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) and maintain a normal heart rate. How to useThis medication should be taken with food, milk or an antacid to prevent stomach upset. Take this medication with a full glass (8 oz or 240 ml) of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medication. This medication works best when there is a constant level of the drug in your body. To do this, take each dose exactly as prescribed at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. Try to take each dose at the same time each day. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Drug Class and MechanismMexitil is used to treat severe irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). Irregular heart rhythms are generally divided into two main types: heartbeats that are faster than normal (tachycardia) and heartbeats that are slower than normal (bradycardia). Arrhythmias are often caused by drugs or disease but can occur in otherwise healthy people with no history of heart disease or other illness. Missed DoseTake any missed dose as soon as possible but not if it is almost time for the next dose. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. Storage Store at room temperature and keep away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Possible Side EffectsNausea, vomiting, heartburn, dizziness, tremor, changes in vision, nervousness, confusion, headache, fatigue, depression, changes in sleep habits, numbness or tingling especially of the hands or feet, ringing in the ears may occur. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Inform your doctor if you develop: chest pain, rapid heartbeat, general weakness, yellowing of the eyes or skin, fever or sore throat, easy bruising/bleeding. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. More InformationYour doctor may want you to check your pulse rate every day while you take this medication. Learn how to monitor your pulse. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., complete blood counts, liver function tests) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details. Warnings/PrecautionsThis medication sometimes produces new irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). Therefore, it should be used in carefully selected patients. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: blood disorders (e.g., leukopenia, thrombocytopenia), congestive heart failure, low blood pressure, liver disease, history of seizures, any allergies- especially allergies to amide- type anesthetics (e.g., lidocaine, tocainamide) or other drugs. Mexitil should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Mexitil is excreted into breast milk. Because the possibility of harm to nursing infants exists, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
What is Mexitil (mexiletine)?
Mexiletine affects the way that your heart beats.
Mexiletine is used to treat seriously irregular heartbeats.
Mexiletine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about Mexitil (mexiletine)?
Do not skip doses, change your dosing schedule, or stop taking mexiletine without talking to your doctor. Changing your schedule could make your condition much worse. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Mexiletine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. If you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, avoid these activities.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Mexitil (mexiletine)?
Before taking mexiletine, tell your doctor if you have
You may not be able to take mexiletine, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
Mexiletine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether mexiletine will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Mexiletine passes into breast milk. It is not known whether mexiletine will affect a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take Mexitil (mexiletine)?
Take mexiletine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each dose with a full glass of water. Also, take mexiletine with food or an antacid to lessen stomach upset. Do not skip doses, change your dosing schedule, or stop taking mexiletine without talking to your doctor. Changing your schedule could make your condition much worse. Store mexiletine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Try not to miss any doses of this medication. Missing doses could be very dangerous.
If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication. A double dose could be dangerous.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention.
Symptoms of a mexiletine overdose include nausea, seizures, numbness or tingling, tiredness, dizziness, a loss of consciousness, and a worsening irregular heartbeat.
What should I avoid while taking Mexitil (mexiletine)?
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Mexiletine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. If you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, avoid these activities.
Follow any other special instructions your doctor gives you regarding food, beverages, or activities.
Mexitil (mexiletine) side effects
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking mexiletine and seek emergency medical attention:
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an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
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a new or a worsening irregular heartbeat pattern;
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wheezing, coughing, chest pain, or chest discomfort;
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unusual bruising or bleeding; or
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fever, sore throat, a sore mouth, mouth ulcers, or an infection.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take mexiletine and talk to your doctor if you experience
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dizziness, lightheadedness, or tiredness;
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poor coordination;
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dry mouth;
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upset stomach, heartburn, vomiting, or decreased appetite;
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diarrhea or constipation;
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headache or blurred vision;
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weakness;
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numbness, tingling, or tremor (shaking);
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ringing in your ears;
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a rash; or
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depression.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect Mexitil (mexiletine)?
Before taking mexiletine, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
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phenytoin (Dilantin), mephenytoin (Mesantoin), or ethotoin (Peganone);
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rifampin (Rimactane, Rifadin);
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metoclopramide (Reglan);
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cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB); or
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theophylline (Theo-Dur, Theolair, Elixophyllin, Slo-Phyllin, others).
You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with mexiletine. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
Where can I get more information?
- Your pharmacist has more information about mexiletine written for health professionals that you may read.
What does my medication look like?
Mexiletine is available with a prescription under the brand name Mexitil. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.
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Mexitil 150 mg--red/caramel-colored capsules
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Mexitil 200 mg--red capsules
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Mexitil 250 mg--red/aqua capsules
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