Examples
|
| | atropine | |
| Lanoxin | digoxin | |
| Dilantin | phenytoin | |
| Inderal | propranolol | |
| | quinidine | |
How It Works
Antiarrhythmic medicines act on the
electrical system of the heart. They block some of the
extra electrical activity in the cells of the heart. This makes the heart beat
regularly.
Why It Is Used
Antiarrhythmic medicines are used to treat and prevent irregular
heartbeats.
How Well It Works
Antiarrhythmic medicines help control irregular heartbeats; they
do not treat the
congenital heart defect itself.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of antiarrhythmic medicines
are:
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Poor appetite.
- Low blood pressure (seen as dizziness, lightheadedness, and
weakness).
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference
is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Do not give any two medicines at the same time if both have a side
effect of lowering blood pressure. Space them out so that 1 to 2 hours go by
before giving the next medicine.
Doses of some antiarrhythmic medicines are given around the clock,
even during the night. Blood levels of these medicines must remain constant in
order to control irregular heartbeats.
If your child continues to have irregular heartbeats (feels like
the heart is beating funny or very fast) while on antiarrhythmic medicine, talk
to his or her doctor.
Do not stop giving antiarrhythmic medicine without the advice of
your child's doctor. It is dangerous to stop some of these medicines
suddenly.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF) 
(What is a PDF document?)
to help you understand this medication.
Credits
| Author | Robin Parks, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Larry A. Latson, MD - Pediatric Cardiology |
| Last Updated | October 25, 2007 |
