Rhythmol (propafenone) is a medication used to treat irregular heart rhythms. According to Drugs.com, this drug belongs to a group of medicines called Class IC antiarrythmics. It works to normalize your heart rhythm. The National Library of Medicine says that you should start taking 150mg of Rhythmol every eight hours or as your doctor instructs.
Common Side Effects
Rhythmol has a wide variety of common side effects. According to MedlinePlus, Rhythmol can cause drowsiness, dizziness, a dry mouth, headache and diarrhea. Be cautious and avoid driving or taking part in certain activities that require your full concentration and alertness. Multiple bouts of diarrhea can cause dehydration and reduced blood potassium levels (hypokalemia). The onset of dehydration is characterized by such symptoms as decreased urination, dry mucus membranes of the mouth and dry skin. Drink plenty (5 to 10 glasses) of water each day to reverse the effects of dehydration. Reduced potassium levels can lead to constipation, fatigue and muscular cramping or weakness. Add bananas to your cereal or consume raisins and apricots to increase potassium stores. Rhythmol can also cause gas (flatulence), blurry vision, an upset stomach, dizziness and changes in your sense of taste. Inform your physician if these effects remain for more than one to two weeks and she can reduce Rhythmol's dosage to prevent these side effects.
Serious Side Effects
The National Library of Medicine indicates that Rhythmol can increase your risk of a heart attack (myocardial infarction). Signs of a heart attack include chest pain that can move to your shoulder and arm, nausea, sweating (diaphoresis) and shortness of breath. Drugs.com indicates that Rhythmol can cause a slow heart rate (bradycardia), fainting, easy bleeding or bruising, seizures, confusion and strange behaviors or thoughts. A slow heart rate prevents your heart from pumping adequate amounts of blood to organs. Less blood flow to your brain can result in fainting (syncope). Easy bleeding or bruising results from low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia). Platelets are supposed to clot your blood and with decreased amounts, your bleeding or bruising is profuse.
Additional Concerns
Avoid Rhythmol if you are allergic to propafenone or any other Class IC antiarrythmics. An allergic reaction includes the following manifestations: trouble breathing, hives, and throat and facial swelling. Drugs.com indicates you must avoid Rhythmol if you have a history of heart problems, asthma, liver or kidney disease, arthritis or lupus, a disease in which your body attacks its own DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). Drugs.com says that digoxin, cimetidine, ketoconazole, rifampin, quinidine, amiodarone and haloperidol can all interact with Rhythmol. Tell your physician when you are taking these drugs.
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