Mexiletine - Drug Information

Generic Name : Mexiletine
Pronunciation : mex-IL-e-teen

ICD Code : Y52.2 | Therapeutic Classification : Antiarrhythmics

Trade Name(s) :

India - Mexitil (250mg), Mexitil (150mg), Mexitil (50mg), Mexitil (250mg), Mexitil (250mg)


International - Mexitil Cap, Mexitil Inj.

Why is Mexiletine Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is used to treat irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) and maintain a normal heart rate. It is an antiarrhythmic. It blocks certain electrical signals in the heart to stabilize the heart rhythm.

Mexiletine is also approved to treat non-dystrophic myotonia in adult patients whose muscles do not relax immediately after contraction resulting in muscle stiffness, pain, disability, and frequent falls.

When should Mexiletine not to be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with cardiogenic shock, 2nd- or 3rd-degree AV block (unless the patient has a pacemaker).

What is the dosage of Mexiletine?

IV- The recommended dose is 100-200mg, over 10 minutes (1mg/min) infusion.
PO- The recommended dose is 150-200mg, three times a day with meals.

How should Mexiletine be taken?

It comes as a capsule to take by mouth with food, either twice or thrice depending upon patient's condition. It is also administered as an infusion at the rate of 1 mg/min.

What are the warnings and precautions for Mexiletine?

*Caution needed for patients with history of acute MI, sinus node dysfunction, conduction defects, slow heart rate, low blood pressure, heart failure, liver impairment, pregnancy.
*Monitor ECG and BP.
*Correct electrolyte imbalance prior to and during therapy.
*It may cause dizziness, avoid driving a car or operate machines, or other unsafe tasks.

What are the side effects of Mexiletine?

Heart- Palpitations, chest pain, increased heart rhythm and heart failure.
Central Nervous System- Dizziness, lightheadedness, tremor, nervousness, coordination difficulties, headache, changes in sleep habits, weakness, tingling, numbness, fatigue, speech difficulties, confusion, depression and drowsiness.
Liver- Increased liver enzymes and liver damage.
Skin- Rash.
Eye and ENT- Blurred vision, visual disturbances, ringing in ears, and uncontrolled movement of the eyes.
Gastrointestinal- Nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, changes in appetite, dry mouth, abdominal pain, cramps, or discomfort.
Blood- Decrease in white blood cells and platelets.
Musculoskeletal- Muscle pain.
Respiratory- Difficulty in breathing.
Miscellaneous- Non-specific swelling, fever and hypersensitivity.

What are the other precautions for Mexiletine?

* Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Mexiletine?

Store at 25°C. Store it in an airtight container and keep away from children.

Schedule H

Prescription drugs - Drugs to be sold only under the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner.