Mexiletine (By mouth)
mex-IL-e-teen
Treats an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). Belongs to a class of drugs called antiarrhythmics.
Drug classes
Antiarrhythmic, Group IB (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Mexiletine belongs to the group of medicines known as antiarrhythmics. It is used to correct irregular heartbeats to a normal rhythm.
Mexiletine produces its helpful effects by slowing nerve impulses in the heart and making the heart tissue less sensitive.
Mexiletine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Capsule, Long Acting Capsule
Your doctor will tell you how much to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
May be taken with food, milk, or antacids to avoid stomach upset.
You may need to carry identification to let others know you are using mexiletine. Ask your doctor about this.
If a dose is missed:
If you use mexiletine 3 times daily and you miss a dose, take your medicine as soon as possible if you are less than 4 hours late. If you use the medicine twice a day, take the missed dose as soon as possible if you are less than 6 hours late.
Otherwise, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.
You should not use two doses at the same time.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Tell your doctor if you are also using phenytoin (Dilantin®), or other heart medicines such as lidocaine or digoxin (Lanoxin®).
Do not smoke while using this medicine.
When Not To Use
You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to mexiletine, lidocaine, or tocainide. This drug should not be used with some heart disorders, liver disease, or seizures – check with your doctor.
Warnings
Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have heart disease, liver disease, seizures, or low blood pressure.
Tell your doctor or dentist that you are using mexiletine before having any kind of surgery.
Do not suddenly stop using this medicine without asking your doctor.
Mexiletine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Be careful if you drive a car or operate machinery.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Irregular heartbeat
Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
Skin rash, severe itching or hives
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or nervousness
Nausea, vomiting, or upset stomach
Blurred vision
Tiredness or weakness
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Mexitil
There may be other brand names for this medicine.