MEXILETINE (mex IL e teen) treats a fast or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). It works by slowing down overactive electric signals in the heart, which stabilizes your heart rhythm. It belongs to a group of medications called antiarrhythmics.

MEXILETINE HCL Lifestyle Interactions

  • Mexiletine Hydrochloride 150mg, Oral capsule

    • Interaction: Tobacco
    • Severity: Moderate
    • Notes for Consumers: In theory, Tobacco smoking may reduce the effectiveness of Mexilitene, because tobacco smoke contains substances that speed the removal of Mexiletine from the body. Also, Tobacco smoking may increase the blood pressure or contribute to the risk of heart disease and related problems. Alternatively, if you take Mexilitene and suddenly stop Tobacco smoking, you may experience increased or worsening side effects of Mexiletine such as nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stomach upset, dizziness, tremor, or coordination difficulties. Make sure your prescriber is aware that you smoke Tobacco or if you plan to stop smoking. Contact your prescriber immediately if you experience chest pain, palpitations, dizziness, fainting or falling spells, shortness of breath, or change in your usual heart beat (fast, slow, or irregular heart beat) while taking Mexiletine.
    • Notes for Professionals: Mexiletine may be affected by pharmacokinetic interactions due to tobacco smoking. Tobacco smoke contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons that induce hepatic CYP450 microsomal enzymes. Tobacco smoking has been noted to significantly enhance the rate of elimination of mexiletine, possibly leading to subtherapeutic clinical effects. Conversely, because the effect on hepatic microsomal enzymes is not related to the nicotine component of tobacco, sudden smoking cessation may result in a reduced clearance of mexiletine, despite the initiation of nicotine replacement. Monitor patients carefully for the desired clinical effects when changes in tobacco smoking status occur.

DISCLAIMER: This drug information content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patients should always consult their physician with any questions regarding a medical condition and to obtain medical advice and treatment. Drug information is sourced from GSDD (Gold Standard Drug Database ) provided by Elsevier.