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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking propafenone (Rythmol, Rythmol SR)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to propafenone, or if you have:

• untreated or uncontrolled congestive heart failure;
• a heart condition called "sick sinus syndrome" or "AV block" (unless you have a pacemaker);
• slow heartbeats or severely low blood pressure;
• a severe or uncontrolled electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium in your blood); or
• a breathing disorder such as severe COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder).

To make sure you can safely take propafenone, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• congestive heart failure;
• a breathing disorder;
• liver disease;
• kidney disease;
• lupus;
• arthritis;
• myasthenia gravis; or
• if you have had a heart attack within the past 2 years.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether propafenone will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

It is not known whether propafenone passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are using propafenone.

How should I take propafenone (Rythmol, Rythmol SR)?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.

You may take propafenone with or without food.

Conditions that may cause very low blood pressure include: vomiting, diarrhea, heavy sweating, heart disease, dialysis, a low salt diet, or taking diuretics (water pills). Tell your doctor if you have a prolonged illness that causes diarrhea or vomiting.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood may need to be tested often. Visit your doctor regularly.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

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