Propafenone supraventricular arrhythmias

Approved indications for propafenone include treatment of supraventricular arrhythmias and life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias in the absence of structural heart disease. Propafenone has been shown to increase mortality in patients with structural heart disease, and so extreme caution must be used in this subset of patients. As with flecainide, the patient should be hospitalized for initiation of therapy. 

Propafenone has some structural similarities to propranolol and possesses weak 3-blocking activity. Its spectrum of action is very similar to that of quinidine, but it does not prolong the action potential. Its sodium channel-blocking kinetics are similar to that of flecainide. Propafenone is metabolized in the liver, with an average half-life of 5-7 hours. The usual daily dosage of propafenone is 450-900 mg in three divided doses. The drug is used primarily for supraventricular arrhythmias. The most common adverse effects are a metallic taste and constipation arrhythmia exacerbation can also occur. 

Propafenone Orally active, weak B-blocking activity supraventricular arrhythmias hepatic metabolism ... 

Propafenone. Propafenone hydrochloride, an arylketone, is stmcturaHy similar to the P-adrenoceptor blocking agents. It has been in use in the former West Germany since 1977 and was introduced in the United States in 1990. Its effects may result from a combination of weak calcium channel blocking, weak nonselective -adrenoceptor blocking, and sodium channel blocking activity. Propafenone is effective in treating supraventricular tachyarrhythmias, ventricular ectopic beats, and ventricular arrhythmias. It is the most frequendy prescribed medication for ventricular arrhythmias in Europe (32). 

Clinical uses PVC, paroxysmal atrial tachycardia, AF, VT Documented life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Flecainide also may be used for AF and supraventricular tachycardias in patients without structural heart disease. Propafenone is also indicated for paroxysmal AF. 

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