Uses of Mexiletine

Mexiletine is used in the treatment of irregular heartbeat which is considered to be life threatening in affected individuals.

Therapeutic Category

Mexiletine: Anti-arrhythmic agents

How Mexiletine works

Mexiletine works by blocking abnormal electrical signal in the heart which leads to regulation of heartbeats and preventing the occurrence of irregular heartbeat thus treating arrythmias and its associated symptoms in affected individuals.

Common side effects of Mexiletine

• Dry mouth, abdominal pain, dyspepsia (indigestion), nausea, constipation
• Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• Involuntary shaking (tremor), ataxia (difficulty in coordinating movements)
• Headache, dizziness
• Somnolence (sleepiness)
• Tingling/pain in the arms and legs, numbness
• Blurred vision
• Vertigo (spinning sensation), ringing in the ears
• Chest discomfort, rapid heart rate, racing heartbeat, abnormal heart rhythm, low blood pressure
• Tiredness, weakness, malaise (feeling discomfort and illness)
• Flushing, rash, acne

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor, if you experience:

• Signs of severe allergic reactions such as severe rash, fever
• Disorders of heart rhythm associated with signs such as faster/slower heart beats, feeling fluttering/pain in chest, difficulty in breathing, dizziness, sweating, and/or fainting

Health Tips for Mexiletine

• Take Mexiletine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Take Mexiletine at the same times each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body. Do not adjust the dosage or stop taking it without consulting your healthcare provider
• Attend regular health checkups while taking this medicine
• Avoid consumption of alcohol and caffeine while taking Mexiletine since it may alter the effect of medicine
• Mexiletine can sometimes cause dehydration, so make sure to drink enough water throughout the day
• Before taking Mexiletine, inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or medications you are taking
• Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy or breastfeeding women