What does it do?

Flecainide is used to treat and prevent irregular heartbeats.

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take flecainide as directed. You can take it with or without food.
Swallow the controlled release (CR) capsules whole with a glass of water.
Measure the liquid carefully with an oral syringe or measuring spoon.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Symptoms of heart problems including: fluttering, pounding or pain in your chest, feeling your heart skips a beat, dizziness or fainting	Tell your doctor immediately
Swollen feet or legs, short of breath Changes in vision	Tell your doctor
Dizziness Tiredness or weakness Stomach upset	Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Smoking can change the effect of flecainide. Tell your doctor if you give up, cut down or start smoking.
• Flecainide can impair your ability to do tasks such as driving or using machines. Alcohol makes this worse. Discuss your risk with your health professional. (search NZTA - Are you safe to drive?)
• Store flecainide liquid as directed. Discard any leftover liquid after the expiry date on the bottle – ask your pharmacist how to do this safely.