What is rhythm control medicines?

Rhythm-control medicines return your heart to a normal rhythm. And they keep it at a normal rhythm. They are also called antiarrhythmics.

Doctors may use these medicines for many reasons. These reasons include:

• You have symptoms from a heart rhythm problem.
• You had electric cardioversion. Or you will have it.
• You had catheter ablation.
• You tried medicine to control your heart rate. But it did not help.
• You are at risk of having a dangerous heart rhythm.

These medicines can have serious side effects.

• Amiodarone (Pacerone)
• Flecainide
• Propafenone (Rythmol)
• Sotalol (Betapace AF)

• You may be in the hospital when you start this medicine. Your doctor will watch what it does to your heart.
• Be sure to ask your doctor any questions. You may want to know more about the pros and cons of the medicine.
• Your doctor will check you often. They will make sure you are not having problems. Be sure to go to all of your visits.
• You may need regular blood tests. These make sure you are taking the right amount of medicine.
• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Check with your doctor or pharmacist before you use any other medicines. This includes over-the-counter medicines. Make sure your doctor knows all of the medicines, vitamins, herbal products, and supplements you take. Taking some medicines together can cause problems.

Side effects depend on which medicine you take. One serious one is a very irregular heart rate.

Read the information that comes with your medicine.