Flecainide (Tambocor, Amarhyton)
Mechanism of action
- Antiarrhythmic (Class Ic)
- Blocks sodium channels on cardiomyocytes which leads to their reduced excitation. This reduces myocardial automaticity and slows down the impulse conduction as well as prolongs refractory period of cardiomyocytes.
- Second effect is a block of potassium channels which lengthens the action potential in cardiomyocytes.
Indications and dose
Pharmacokinetics
Onset of action: 2–4 hours
Half-life of elimination:
- 13 hours after single dose
- 16 hours after multiple doses
Metabolism: Hepatic
Elimination: Kidneys (86 %), liver
Directions for administration
Should be taken at least one hour before food since food undesirably affects the absorption of the drug.
Medicinal forms
Pills – 50 mg, 100 mg
Side-effects
Arrhythmias (high risk in patients with structural heart disease)
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Dyspnoea
References
