What Is Flecainide Acetate?

Flecainide acetate is a medication prescribed to treat some types of irregular heartbeats that may become fatal, such as paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia or persistent ventricular tachycardia. It cannot be used to treat all types of irregular heartbeats, such as persistent atrial fibrilation. This drug is an antiarrhythmic medicine that works to maintain a steady heartbeat by slowing down certain electrical signals. Before using this medication, patients should be aware that flecainide acetate can rarely cause them to develop a new type of dangerous, irregular heartbeat. In addition, those who have had a heart attack in the two years prior to taking this drug may be more likely to suffer a fatal heart attack while on flecainide acetate.

Adults will usually be prescribed one dosage every 12 hours; however, some may need a dose every eight hours. The initial dosages are usually taken in a hospital so the doctor may monitor the patient's reaction to the drug. Patients may begin treatment with a smaller dose of the drug, to be gradually increased no sooner than every four days. Each dose may be taken with or without food.

Some side effects may occur while using flecainide acetate, which should be reported to the prescribing physician if they become severe. Patients may experience nausea, stomach pain, and constipation. Shortness of breath, uncontrollable shaking, and weakness, along with fatigue have also been reported. Dizziness and vision problems, such as seeing spots or blurred vision, may also occur.

More serious side effects require immediate medical attention. Rarely, patients may faint or they may experience severe dizziness and a rapid or more irregular heartbeat. Some patients may notice side effects that could indicate worsening heart failure, such as shortness of breath while they lie down, swelling of the legs or ankles, and increased tiredness. Other serious side effects can include coughing with bloody mucus, pain in the upper portion of the stomach, and loss of appetite.

Before using flecainide acetate to treat an irregular heartbeat, patients must disclose their other medical conditions. Women who are pregnant should avoid its use whenever possible. This drug may pass into breast milk; however, it is not expected to cause harm to a nursing infant. Flecainide acetate may be contraindicated for use by those who have low levels of potassium, kidney problems, or liver disease.

This antiarrhythmic agent may interact with other medications. Patients should disclose all other drugs and supplements they take, including beta blockers, phenobarbital, and sodium bicarbonate. Flecainide acetate may also interact with antacids, verapamil, and quinidine.