Norpace is called Rythmodan in Europe.
Information about Norpace (Disopyramide)
Norpace is a prescription medication that contains disopyramide, a class 1a antiarrhythmic drug used to manage abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). It works by affecting the electrical signals in the heart to restore a normal rhythm. Disopyramide is particularly effective in treating ventricular arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia and atrial arrhythmias, by inhibiting sodium channels in heart muscle cells, which helps to stabilize the heart’s electrical activity. Norpace is often used in patients with symptomatic arrhythmias when other therapies have been insufficient or unsuitable.
Product Highlights
- Norpace is used to treat ventricular arrhythmias, which are abnormal heart rhythms originating in the lower chambers (ventricles) of the heart, such as ventricular tachycardia.
- It may also be used for treating certain atrial arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter, especially when other treatments have not been effective.
- Norpace is sometimes used for the prevention of recurrent arrhythmias following successful cardioversion (restoration of normal rhythm).
- It is prescribed for individuals with arrhythmias causing symptoms like dizziness, palpitations, or fainting.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Disopyramide helps to restore and maintain normal heart rhythms, particularly in patients with ventricular and atrial arrhythmias.
- By controlling abnormal heart rhythms, Norpace can relieve symptoms like dizziness, palpitations, and shortness of breath associated with arrhythmias.
- It can be used for long-term management of arrhythmias to prevent recurrence and minimize symptoms.
- Effective arrhythmia control may significantly improve a patient's quality of life by reducing episodes of arrhythmia-related symptoms.
Direction of Use
- The starting dose is typically 100 mg to 200 mg once or twice daily, depending on the severity of the arrhythmia and individual response. The dose may be gradually increased up to a maximum of 400 mg per day.
- For Ventricular Arrhythmias: The usual dose is 100–200 mg every 12 hours, but it may be adjusted based on the patient’s condition.
- For Atrial Arrhythmias: The typical dose may range from 100–200 mg every 12 hours, depending on the patient's response.
- Take Norpace tablets with a full glass of water, and ideally with food to minimize stomach irritation. Tablets should be taken whole and should not be crushed or chewed.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing routine.
Safety Concerns
- Disopyramide may cause cardiac conduction abnormalities and can worsen arrhythmias in some patients. Patients with heart failure or low ejection fraction should use caution, as the drug can potentially worsen these conditions.
- Hypokalemia (low potassium levels) and hypomagnesemia (low magnesium levels) can exacerbate arrhythmias. Patients on Norpace should have their electrolyte levels monitored, and they may need to correct any imbalances before starting therapy.
- Disopyramide has anticholinergic properties, which can lead to side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, blurred vision, and confusion, especially in older adults.
- Like other antiarrhythmic drugs, disopyramide may prolong the QT interval on an ECG, potentially increasing the risk of torsades de pointes (a life-threatening arrhythmia).
- Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment, as dose adjustments may be required.
- Common side effects include dizziness, dry mouth, urinary retention, constipation, blurred vision, and nausea. Serious side effects may include severe heart arrhythmias, difficulty breathing, and chest pain.
- Norpace may interact with other medications, including other antiarrhythmics, certain antibiotics, antifungals, and antidepressants. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking.
Avoid Norpace (Disopyramide) If
- Do not use Norpace if you have a known allergy to disopyramide or any of its components.
- Avoid use in patients with severe heart failure, heart block, or cardiogenic shock, as disopyramide can exacerbate these conditions.
- Use caution or avoid Norpace in patients with severe liver or kidney disease, as disopyramide is metabolized by the liver and excreted by the kidneys.
- Avoid Norpace if you have a long QT syndrome or any condition that predisposes you to a prolonged QT interval, as it may increase the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias.
- Avoid Norpace in patients with severe electrolyte imbalances, especially low potassium or magnesium levels, as this can worsen arrhythmias.
- Due to its anticholinergic properties, Norpace should be avoided in individuals with narrow-angle glaucoma, urinary retention, or other conditions that could be worsened by anticholinergic drugs.
