Flecarite 100 Tablet ( 10 Tab)

FLECARITE 100 TABLET

Name

• Brand Name: FLECARITE 100 TABLET
• Common Name: Flecainide (as flecainide acetate)

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Flecainide acetate 100 mg

Uses

FLECARITE 100 TABLET is an antiarrhythmic medication used to treat and prevent certain types of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) by stabilizing the electrical activity in the heart. It helps to restore and maintain a normal heart rhythm.

It is prescribed for:

• Managing life-threatening irregular heartbeats or arrhythmias.
• Sustained ventricular tachycardia (abnormally fast heartbeat in the lower chambers of the heart).
• Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT), which includes episodes of rapid heart rate originating above the lower chambers.
• Atrial fibrillation and flutter (irregular and often rapid heart rates in the upper chambers).
• Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome.

Dosage and Administration

FLECARITE 100 TABLET should be taken regularly as advised by your doctor.

• It is generally recommended to take it on an empty stomach, ideally at least one hour before meals, or as directed by your doctor.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it.
• The daily dose is usually taken split over the day, and your doctor will prescribe a personalized dose based on your condition's severity and response to treatment.
• For some conditions, the recommended dose for Flecainide 100mg tablets is one tablet twice a day, though your doctor may adjust this. Never alter the dosage or stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Dizziness, lightheadedness, vertigo.
• Blurred vision, double vision, difficulty focusing.
• Headache.
• Fatigue, weakness.
• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation.
• Tremors and coordination problems.
• Edema (swelling, particularly in the ankles and feet).

Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include:

• New or worsening arrhythmias, irregular heartbeat, palpitations, chest pain.
• Shortness of breath.
• Fainting, severe dizziness.
• Leg swelling.
• Rapid heartbeat or slow heart rate.
• Heart failure.

Precautions

• Heart Conditions: Use with caution in patients with pre-existing heart diseases like heart failure, recent heart attack, or conduction disorders. It is generally not recommended for patients with heart failure, cardiogenic shock, heart block, or a history of myocardial infarction (heart attack).
• Liver and Kidney Impairment: Caution is advised in patients with mild to moderate liver impairment or kidney problems. Dose adjustments and regular monitoring of kidney function may be required.
• Electrolyte Imbalances: Correct any electrolyte imbalances (body salts) before initiating therapy, as these can increase the risk of arrhythmias.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Generally not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly necessary, and not recommended for breastfeeding women as it may pass into breast milk.
• Alcohol: Interaction of alcohol with Flecarite 100 Tablet is not well-studied; however, it is advised to avoid alcohol as it may increase dizziness.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness, blurred vision, or decreased alertness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are currently taking, as potential drug interactions can occur.
• Abrupt Discontinuation: Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor, as sudden cessation can worsen your heart condition.
• Children and Elderly: Flecarite 100 Tablet is not recommended for children below 12 years of age. It should be used with caution in elderly patients, and a lower dose may be prescribed.
• Monitoring: Regular check-ups, including ECG, blood counts, plasma concentrations, blood sugar levels, and kidney function, are essential while on this medication.

Storage

• Store at room temperature, ideally not exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.
• Keep the medicine in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Ensure the tablet is out of reach of children and pets.
• Always check the expiry date on the package before use.

What is Flecarite 100 Tablet used for?

Flecarite 100 Tablet is an antiarrhythmic medication used to manage and prevent certain types of irregular heartbeats, also known as arrhythmias. It is effective in treating conditions such as sustained ventricular tachycardia (abnormally fast heartbeat in the lower chambers), paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (rapid heart rate originating above the lower chambers), and atrial fibrillation and flutter (irregular and often rapid heart rates in the upper chambers). By restoring a normal heart rhythm, it helps reduce discomfort and lowers the risk of complications like blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes.

How does Flecarite 100 Tablet work?

Flecarite 100 Tablet contains flecainide, which works by blocking sodium channels in the heart cells. These channels are crucial for the electrical signals that control heart contractions. By inhibiting the flow of sodium ions, flecainide slows down these electrical signals, stabilizes the heart's rhythm, and prolongs the action potential, which is the time during which a heart cell cannot reactivate after an electrical impulse. This action helps to suppress abnormal electrical activity and restore a regular heartbeat.

What is the usual dosage of Flecarite 100 Tablet?

The dosage of Flecarite 100 Tablet is prescribed by your doctor and is adjusted based on your condition's severity and response to treatment. It is usually taken twice a day. For conditions like paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter, the initial adult dose might be 50 mg every 12 hours. For sustained ventricular tachycardia, it could be 100 mg every 12 hours. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, ideally on an empty stomach, at least one hour before a meal. Never alter the dosage or stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Flecarite 100 Tablet?

Common side effects of Flecarite 100 Tablet include dizziness, blurred vision, headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and coordination problems. Some individuals may also experience double vision, lightheadedness, weakness, fever, or swelling (edema). Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include new or worsening arrhythmias, chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, severe dizziness, leg swelling, and rapid heartbeat. If side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Is Flecarite 100 Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Flecarite 100 Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless considered clearly necessary by a doctor, as animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Limited human data suggests mild side effects during pregnancy. It is not recommended for breastfeeding women, as it may be excreted in breast milk. However, some limited human data suggests it may be safe for the baby when prescribed by an expert. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding before taking this medicine.

Can Flecarite 100 Tablet be taken with other medications?

Yes, Flecarite 100 Tablet can interact with several medications. It may amplify the effects of other antiarrhythmic medicines like amiodarone and quinidine, increasing the risk of arrhythmias. When taken with cardiac glycosides like digoxin, the levels of digoxin in your body may rise, potentially leading to toxicity. Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol, metoprolol) or calcium channel blockers (e.g., verapamil, diltiazem) may also have increased effects or impact heart rhythm and blood pressure when used alongside Flecarite 100 Tablet. Tricyclic antidepressants and certain antibiotics can also interact. Always inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are currently taking to avoid potential drug interactions.

What precautions should be taken with Flecarite 100 Tablet?

Several precautions should be taken while on Flecarite 100 Tablet. It should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing heart conditions like heart failure, recent heart attack, or conduction disorders, as it might worsen the situation. Patients with kidney or liver impairment may require dose adjustments due to decreased medicinal clearance. Electrolyte imbalances should be corrected before starting therapy. Flecarite 100 Tablet can cause dizziness or blurred vision, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Regular check-ups and monitoring of blood tests (sodium, potassium levels), kidney, and lung function are essential. Do not stop taking the medication abruptly. It is generally not recommended for children under 12 or 18 years of age.

What happens if a dose of Flecarite 100 Tablet is missed?

If you forget to take your regular dose of Flecarite 100 Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one without consulting your doctor.

How should Flecarite 100 Tablet be stored?

Flecarite 100 Tablet should be stored at room temperature, ideally not exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. Keep the medicine in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Ensure the tablets are kept out of reach of children and pets. Always check the expiry date on the package before use.