Propafenone

Products

Propafenone is commercially available in the form of film-coated tablets (Rytmonorm). It has been approved in many countries since 1983.

Structure and properties

Propafenone (C21H27NO3, Mr = 341.4 g/mol) is present in the drug as propafenone hydrochloride, colorless crystals or a white crystalline powder that is sparingly soluble in water. The substance has a bitter taste and is locally anesthetic. Propafenone is structurally related to the beta-blocker propranolol.

Effects

Propafenone (ATC C01BC03) has antiarrhythmic properties. It belongs to class IC and has local anesthetic and membrane stabilizing effects on the cardiac myocyte. The effects are due to blockade of sodium channels. Propafenone is additionally a weak beta blocker and calcium channel blocker.

Indications

For the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias.

Dosage

According to the professional information. The tablets are usually taken two to three times daily after meals.

Contraindications

For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Interactions

Propafenone is metabolized by CYP2D6, CYP3A4, and CYP1A2. Appropriate interactions with CYP inhibitors and inducers may occur. Other drug-drug interactions have been described with local anesthetics, beta-blockers, orlistat, antidepressants, other antiarrhythmics, and anticoagulants.

Adverse effects

The most common potential adverse effects include taste disturbances, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, constipation, headache, fatigue, and cardiac conduction disturbances. Like other antiarrhythmic drugs, propafenone itself can cause cardiac arrhythmias.