Monograph Details
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Cardiovascular System
> CHF and arrhythmias
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Mexiletine |
| Manufacturer |
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Various generic manufacturers |
| Legal Classification |
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Rx
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| Pharmacological Class |
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Class IB antiarrhythmic. |
| Generic Name |
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Mexiletine HCl 150mg, 200mg, 250mg; caps. |
| Indications |
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Documented life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. |
| Children |
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Not recommended. |
| Adults |
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Take with food or antacid. Initially 200mg every 8hrs. Adjust dose if needed at not less than 2–3 day intervals in 50–100mg increments. Usual dose: 200–300mg every 8hrs; max 1.2g/day. If arrhythmia is controlled by ≤300mg every 8hrs, may try dividing same daily dose every 12hrs; max 450mg every 12hrs. See literature for information on rapid induction and changing from other antiarrhythmics. |
| Contraindications |
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Cardiogenic shock. 2nd- or 3rd- degree AV block unless paced. |
| Precautions |
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Hepatic impairment. Severe heart failure. Sinus node dysfunction or intraventricular conduction defects. Hypotension. Epilepsy. Monitor ECG, blood and liver function. Pregnancy (Cat.C). Nursing mothers: not recommended. |
| Interactions |
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May potentiate other antiarrhythmics, theophylline. Monitor control if used with hepatic enzyme-inducing drugs. Avoid drugs or diets that alter urinary pH. |
| Adverse Reactions |
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GI upset, dizziness, tremor, nervousness, ataxia, chest pain, blurred vision, exacerbated arrhythmias, hepatotoxicity. |
| How Supplied |
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Contact supplier. |
| Additional Resources |
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• Related Prescribing Note |
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