Propafenone
Propafenone is a class 1C anti-arrhythmic medication. It is used in the treatment of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias.It works by slowing the influx of sodium ions into the cardiac muscle cells, causing a decrease in excitablity of the cells. It is metabolized primarily in the liver. Because of its short half-life, it requires dosing two or three times daily to maintain steady blood levels. The long-term safety of propafenone is unknown. Because it is structurally similar to another dangerous anti-arrhythmic medicine, flecainide, caution should be exercised in its use. Flecainide has been shown to increase the occurrence of dangerous arrhythmias. Side effects may include hypersensitivity reactions, lupus-like syndrome, agranulocytopenia, CNS disturbances such as dizziness, lightheadedness, G.I. upset, metallic taste and bronchospasm