Mexiletine (Mexiletine)
Overview of Mexiletine
Mexiletine belongs to class IB-antiarrhythmic group of medicines. Mexiletine is a sodium channel blocking agent. Chemically Mexiletine is 1-methyl-2-(2, 6-xylyloxy) ethylamine. Mexiletine is used as an antiarrhythmic agent and resembles lidocaine in its electro-physiological effects in the heart and has the same uses and equal efficacy but is superior in that it may be used in chronic treatment. its primary advantage is oral efficacy and relatively long half-life. its useful actions are primarily limited to ventricular dysrhythmias. It is used to treat arrhythmia within heart or serious irregular heart beat.
Indication of Mexiletine
Mexiletine is primarily indicated in conditions like Cardiac arrhythmia, Myocardial infarction, Postinfarct arrythmias, Ventricular arrhythmias, Ventricular arrhythmias, especially after myocardial infarction, Wolf-parkinson-white syndrome, and can also be given in adjunctive therapy as an alternative drug of choice in Pain.
Contraindication of Mexiletine
Mexiletine is contraindicated in conditions like Cardiogenic shock.
Side Effects of Mexiletine
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Mexiletine, which give rise to further complications include Convulsions, Ataxia, Fever, Allergic reactions, Jaundice, Jaundice, Leucopenia, Agranulocytosis, Depression, Wheezing, Chest pain, Cough, Psychiatric disorders.,Mexiletine produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Bradycardia, Hypotension, Hepatitis. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Mexiletine therapy.,The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Mexiletine include Convulsions, Seizures, fatigue, Pulmonary fibrosis, Unconsciousness, Thrombocytopenia, Heart block, Ventricular asystole, Numbness, Irregularities in heart rhythm.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Mexiletine are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Dizziness, Headache, Nausea, Vomiting, Constipation, Termors, Rashes, Disorientation, Heart burn, Trembling, Oesophageal ulcerations, dizziness.
Precautions of Mexiletine
Mexiletine should be used with caution in patients with known seizure disorders, hypotension, intraventricular conduction abnormalities, and hepatic impairment (as liver metabolizes it so half-life may increased). Avoid concurrent diet or drug, which alter the urine pH. Do not drive as Mexiletine may cause dizziness.Oral dose should be taken with swallowed with plenty of water.