Key result
Mexiletine is an antiarrhythmic drug associated with frequent gastrointestinal, hepatic, and hematologic side effects that require regular monitoring and careful dose titration.
Why the study?
What are the adverse side effects and safety considerations associated with mexiletine?
What are the adverse side effects and safety considerations associated with mexiletine?
Mexiletine is an antiarrhythmic drug with frequent but manageable side effects requiring regular monitoring of liver function, hematologic parameters, and ANA.
Reinforces monitoring protocols for mexiletine in arrhythmia care; leaves open need for updated comparative safety data.
Mexiletine is a new antiar‐rhythmic drug that has minor negative inotropic effects even in patients with underlying left ventricular dysfunction. The drug can be used in patients with underlying conduction system disease although reports of worsening sinus node function or atrioventicular conduction abnormalities have been noted. Mexiletine may aggravate venticular arrhythmias. The drug can be used safely with other cardioactive agents. Side effects are frequent but can be minimized by starting with low doses and titrating the dosage as tolerated. Mexiletine should be administered with meals or a snack or with antacids or possibly cimetidine to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Mexiletine can cause abnormal liver function tests, hematologic abnormalities, and elevated titers of antinuclear antibodies (ANA). Regular monitoring of these parameters is suggested.
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Flaker et al. (1986) conducted a review in Arrhythmias. Mexiletine was evaluated. Mexiletine is an antiarrhythmic drug associated with frequent gastrointestinal, hepatic, and hematologic side effects that require regular monitoring and careful dose titration.
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