Mexitil

Generic name: mexiletine hydrochloride

What is Mexitil?

Mexitil is a medication that treats irregular heartbeat conditions known as "ventricular arrhythmias." Because Mexitil may worsen irregular heartbeats in some patients, it is only used for serious, life-threatening conditions. Mexitil is usually first given in the hospital so that your doctor can closely monitor your heart's response.

What is the most important information I should know about Mexitil?

You should only take Mexitil if you have been diagnosed by your doctor as having a life-threatening arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat).

Mexitil may cause acute liver injury; your doctor may monitor your liver function by performing simple blood tests.

You should be cautious taking Mexitil if you have low blood pressure, congestive heart failure, any seizure disorder, or liver impairment or disease. In some cases, Mexitil can worsen arrhythmias; your doctor may closely monitor your heart's function.

Rarely, Mexitil can lower the counts of certain cells in your blood necessary to fight infections and form clots if you are bleeding. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any infection or prolonged bleeding while taking Mexitil.

Who should not take Mexitil?

You should not take Mexitil if you have been diagnosed with conditions called "cardiogenic shock" or "pre-existing second- or third-degree AV block" (if you do not have a pacemaker).

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Mexitil?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Mexitil. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver impairment or disease, congestive heart failure, or low blood pressure.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual initial dosage is 200-300 milligrams (mg) taken every 8 hours as monitored by your doctor. Your individual dose may be lower or higher than this based on your condition. If satisfactory response has not been achieved at 300 mg every 8 hours, then 400 mg every 8 hours may be tried. The dose should not exceed 1200 mg per day.

How should I take Mexitil?

You should take Mexitil at the same time every day with food or an antacid.

What should I avoid while taking Mexitil?

You should avoid consuming excessive amounts of caffeine, as Mexitil may prolong its effects in your body.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Mexitil?

If Mexitil is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Mexitil with the following: caffeine, cimetidine, fluvoxamine, phenobarbital, propafenone, rifampin, and theophylline.

What are the possible side effects of Mexitil?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, lightheadedness, tremor or shakiness, problems with coordination, changes in sleeping patterns, nervousness, weakness or numbness, headache, blurred vision or vision changes, rash, water retention, irregular heartbeat, or chest pain.

Can I receive Mexitil if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Mexitil during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Mexitil?

If you normally take Mexitil every 8 hours and miss a dose, take it as soon as possible if the dose is less than 4 hours late. If you are on a 12-hour dosing schedule, take the missed dose if it is less than 6 hours late. Otherwise, you should skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Mexitil?

Mexitil should be stored at room temperature.