MEXILETINE HCL

Drug Name: MEXILETINE HCL

MEXILETINE HCL DESCRIPTION:
MEXILETINE - ORAL (mex-ILL-ih-teen)

COMMON MEXILETINE HCL BRAND NAME(S):
Mexitil

MEXILETINE HCL SIDE EFFECTS:
Nausea, vomiting, heartburn, dizziness, tremor, changes in vision, nervousness, confusion, headache, fatigue, depression, changes in sleep habits, numbness or tingling especially of the hands or feet, ringing in the ears may occur. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Inform your doctor if you develop: chest pain, rapid heartbeat, general weakness, yellowing of the eyes or skin, fever or sore throat. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE MEXILETINE HCL:
MEXILETINE HCL: MEXILETINE HCL should be taken with food, milk or an antacid to prevent stomach upset. MEXILETINE HCL works best when there is a constant level of the drug in your body. To do this, take each dose exactly as prescribed at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. Try to take each dose at the same time each day. Do not stop taking MEXILETINE HCL without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped.

MEXILETINE HCL WARNING:
MEXILETINE HCL sometimes produces new irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). Therefore, it should be used in carefully selected patients. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

MEXILETINE HCL USES:
MEXILETINE HCL is used to treat irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) and maintain a normal heart rate.

MEXILETINE HCL PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: congestive heart failure, low blood pressure, liver disease, history of seizures, any allergies- especially allergies to amide- type anesthetics (e.g., lidocaine, tocainamide) or other drugs. Mexiletine should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Mexiletine is excreted into breast milk. Because the possibility of harm to nursing infants exists, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

MEXILETINE HCL DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all medications you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially: rifampin, theophylline, caffeine, phenytoin, metoclopramide, sodium bicarbonate, potassium citrate, ammonium chloride. Smoking can decrease the effects of MEXILETINE HCL. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

MEXILETINE HCL OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, low blood pressure, slow pulse, tingling in fingers or toes, seizures, and loss of consciousness.

MEXILETINE HCL NOTES:
Your doctor may want you to check your pulse rate every day while you take MEXILETINE HCL. Learn how to monitor your pulse.

MISSED MEXILETINE HCL DOSE:
Take any missed dose as soon as possible but not if it is almost time for the next dose. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

MEXILETINE HCL STORAGE:
Store at room temperature and keep away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854- 1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.