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Propafenone
If you have certain types of heart rhythm problems, your healthcare provider may prescribe propafenone to help the heart return to a regular rhythm. It can also help maintain a regular heart rhythm in certain cases. Possible side effects include nausea, an unusual taste, and constipation. This medicine comes in tablets and is taken three times a day.
Propafenone (Rythmol®) is a prescription medication that belongs to a group of drugs known as antiarrhythmics. It is approved to:
- Treat a type of irregular heartbeat known as ventricular arrhythmia when it is considered life-threatening
- Help maintain a regular heart rate in certain people with heart arrhythmias known as paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter or paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia.
Propafenone is also available in an extended-release version, as propafenone SR (Rythmol SR).
(Click What Is Propafenone Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
Just like any medicine, propafenone can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. Most people tolerate it quite well.
If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects seen with propafenone include but are not limited to:
- An unusual taste
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Constipation.
(Click Propafenone Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH, BCPP
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD