Procainamide Oral
Conditions Treated
Procainamide is used to treat abnormal heart rhythms. It works by making your heart more resistant to abnormal activity.
Possible Side Effects
What Side Effects Can This Cause?
Procainamide may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- loss of appetite
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- bitter taste
If you experience the following symptom or any of those listed in the IMPORTANT WARNING section, call your doctor immediately:
- irregular heartbeat
Usage Instructions
How Should This Medication Be Used
Procainamide comes as a capsule and tablet to take by mouth. Immediate-acting procainamide usually is taken every 3 or 4 hours. The long-acting product is usually taken every 6 or 12 hours. Do not cut, crush, or chew extended-release (long-acting) tablets; swallow them whole. You may see a waxy core in your stool if you are taking the extended-release product; this is normal. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take procainamide exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Procainamide helps control your condition but will not cure it. Continue to take procainamide even if you feel well. Do not stop taking procainamide without talking to your doctor.
Are There Any Special Instructions
Before taking procainamide, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to procainamide, anesthetics, aspirin, or any other drugs. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially digoxin (Lanoxin) or drugs for high blood pressure, and vitamins. in addition to the condition listed in the IMPORTANT WARNING section, tell your doctor if you have or have ever had lupus, heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or liver disease, or myasthenia gravis. if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking procainamide. you should know that this drug may make you dizzy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you. remember that alcohol can add to the dizziness caused by this drug. talk to your doctor about the use of cigarettes and caffeine-containing beverages. These products may increase the irritability of your heart and interfere with the action of procainamide.
Brand Names
Common Brand Names for This Medication
- Procanbid®
Overdose
What To Do In The Case of Emergency
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Forgotten Doses
What Should I Do If I Forget A Dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Information
What Are the Storage Conditions for this Medication?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What Other Information Should I Know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will need to determine your response to procainamide. Take procainamide at the same time each day in regularly spaced intervals. Changing the time of your doses prevents procainamide from working effectively. Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.