Mexiletine hydrochloride
Brand and Other Names:
Mexiletine hydrochloride
Mechanism of Action:
Class 1B antiarrhythmic; blocks sodium channels, reducing the rate of Phase 0 depolarization in cardiac cells.
Indications:
Documented life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, e.g., sustained ventricular tachycardia.
Route:
oral
Dose:
Initial 200 mg every 8 hours; titrate to 200–300 mg q8h; max 1200 mg/day
Adverse Reactions:
GI upset (nausea, heartburn), dizziness, tremor, coordination issues, nervousness, rash, blurred vision.
Contraindication:
Cardiogenic shock; 2nd or 3rd-degree AV block without a pacemaker.
Warnings and Precautions:
Risk of proarrhythmia, liver injury, seizures, blood dyscrasias, and potential drug interactions (e.g., with CYP inhibitors).
See package insert for full prescribing information.