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Flecainide Side Effects
Swelling, feeling faint, and difficulty breathing are some of the side effects of flecainide that require immediate medical treatment. In most cases, however, reactions to this medication are generally mild and easy to treat. During clinical studies of the drug, some of the most commonly reported problems included dizziness, nausea, and loss of strength.
An Introduction to Side Effects of Flecainide
Just like any medicine, flecainide acetate (Tambocor™) can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the medication will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with flecainide. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
Serious Flecainide Side Effects
Some side effects of flecainide are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include but are not limited to:- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- An unexplained rash
- Hives
- Itching
- Unexplained swelling, especially of the mouth, lips, or throat
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Any abnormal heartbeat, including a slow, fast, irregular, or forcefully beating heart
- Feeling faint or dizzy
- Swelling of the arms, hands, legs, ankles, or feet
- Signs of liver problems, such as:
- Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine
- Pain in the upper-right area of the abdomen (stomach)
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Extreme tiredness or lack of energy
- Loss of appetite
- Severe or persistent diarrhea, vomiting, or sweating
- Severe or persistent changes in vision.
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH, BCPP
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD