Tambocor

Generic name: Flecainide acetate

What is Tambocor?

Tambocor is used to treat certain heart rhythm disturbances, including paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (a sudden attack or worsening of irregular heartbeat in which the upper chamber of the heart beats irregularly and very rapidly) and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (a sudden attack or worsening of an abnormally fast but regular heart rate that occurs irregularly). Tambocor is also used to treat ventricular arrhythmias (an abnormal heart rhythm in which the lower chamber of the heart beats irregularly).

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

Tambocor may sometimes cause or worsen heartbeat irregularities and certain heart conditions, such as heart failure. Tambocor should not be used if you have had a recent heart attack.

Who should not take Tambocor?

Do not take Tambocor if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, if you have heart block (without a pacemaker), or if your heart cannot supply enough blood to the body.

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Tambocor. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a pacemaker, any other type of heart disease or heart problems, kidney or liver disease, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

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.

Treatment with Tambocor usually begins in the hospital.

Adults: The usual starting dose is 50 to 100 milligrams (mg) every 12 hours, depending on the condition under treatment. Every 4 days, your doctor my increase your dose by 50 mg every 12 hours until your condition is under control. The maximum recommended dose is 300 to 400 mg daily, depending on the condition being treated.

Children: The dosage is based on body surface area and is always supervised by a heart doctor specializing in arrhythmias in children. In children <6 months of age, the usual initial dose is 50 mg/m² body surface area daily, divided into 2 or 3 equally spaced doses; >6 months of age, the initial starting dose may be increased to 100 mg/m² per day.

How should I take Tambocor?

Take Tambocor exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Serious heartbeat disturbances may result if you do not follow your doctor's instructions, if you miss any regular doses, or if you increase or decrease the dosage without consulting your doctor.

What should I avoid while taking Tambocor?

Smoking may reduce the amount of Tambocor in your body. Do not start or stop smoking without first talking to your doctor.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Tambocor?

If Tambocor 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 Tambocor with the following: amiodarone, beta-blockers (such as atenolol, metoprolol, and propranolol), calcium-blocking drugs (such as diltiazem, nifedipine, and verapamil), carbamazepine, cimetidine, digoxin, disopyramide, phenobarbital, phenytoin, quinidine

What are the possible side effects of Tambocor?

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: abdominal pain, chest pain, constipation, difficulty breathing, dizziness, faintness, fast heartbeat, fatigue, headache, lightheadedness, tremor, unsteadiness, visual disturbances, water retention.

Tambocor may also cause new or worsened heartbeat abnormalities, heart attack, congestive heart failure, and heart block (an interference with contraction of the heart).

Can I receive Tambocor if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Tambocor during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tambocor has been found to pass into human breast milk. 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 Tambocor?

Take Tambocor as soon as you remember if it is within 6 hours of your scheduled time. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Take the next dose as scheduled. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Tambocor?

Store Tambocor at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from light.