Norpace is an oral capsule consisting of a group 1 antiarrhythmics drug called disopyramide. Norpace may also be referred to as Rythmodan internationally, and can be purchased here at MyDrugCenter in 100mg, 150mg, and 250mg!

Norpace is used in cases of life-threatening irregular heartbeats (life-threatening heart arrhythmia), such as persistent ventricular tachycardia. A normal heartbeat for an adult 18 or older is between 60 – 100 beats per minutes, a person with a condition such as ventricular tachycardia may have a heartbeat of 170 beats per minute. Heart arrhythmias are caused when there are changes in the electrical system of the heart, which are most commonly caused by damage from disease, injuries, surgery, or genetics. In some cases, the heart rhythm can become so erratic it can cause sudden cardiac death.

Norpace (disopyramide) is effective in controlling irregular heartbeats due to its capability to block the electrical signals in the heart that cause the irregular heartbeats, which not only helps control the heart rate but also prevents further consequences of irregular heartbeats such as blood clots, heart attack and stroke.

Take Norpace (disopyramide) exactly the way your doctor has directed you too. It is important to follow directions given by your doctor to not only avoid adverse interactions and side effects but also to allow for the most effective dose to prevent/treat Norpace (disopyramide). If you forget how your doctor would like you to take Norpace (disopyramide), you may be able to find instructions on the prescription bottle.

Your doctor may suggest taking your first dose in a hospital setting so any side effects that may occur can be quickly treated.

Ensure you do not miss any doses or suddenly stop taking Norpace. Sudden changes in the way you take this medication may make your condition worse. Use this medication often to get the most benefit from it.

Take this medication by mouth, with or without food, 4 times a day, or as directed by your doctor. If you are taking Norpace LA (long-acting/extended release), do this 2 times a day, or as directed by your doctor.

Store this medication at room temperature in a low risk area of moisture and heat.

Do not use Norpace (disopyramide)

You should not use Norpace if you have long QT syndrome or if you have a serious heart condition such as “AV” block (excluding those with pacemakers).

Do not use this medication for a condition that it has not been prescribed for.

Avoid this product if you are allergic to disopyramide.

This medication passes into breast milk and has potential to harm a nursing infant. Do not use Norpace if you are breastfeeding.

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required

For your own safety, before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have other heart rhythm disorders ("sick sinus syndrome", bundle branch block, Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome), congestive heart failure, or if you have recently had a heart attack, low blood pressure, low potassium levels in your blood (hypokalemia), low blood sugar, or diabetes, liver or kidney disease, enlarged prostate, bladder obstruction or other urination problems, glaucoma, myasthenia gravis, or if you are malnourished.

Risks

This medication may or may not harm an unborn baby if used by a pregnant mother. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant to discuss the risks and benefits.

If you suspect an overdose, contact emergency services right away; an overdose on disopyramide can be fatal.

This drug can cause low blood sugar; this should be noted before taking Norpace, especially in patients with diabetes.

Common side effects of Norpace (disopyramide) may include:

dry mouth, nose, or throat; nausea, stomach pain, bloating; constipation; dry eyes, blurred vision; headache, tiredness, general ill feeling; or muscle pain or weakness.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Norpace (disopyramide) may include:

a new or a worsening irregular heartbeat pattern; little or no urinating, painful or difficult urination; a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; shortness of breath (even with mild exertion), swelling, rapid weight gain;

If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Contact your doctor if you notice signs of…

Low blood sugar: headache, hunger, weakness, sweating, confusion, irritability, dizziness, fast heart rate, or feeling jittery

Overdose: trouble breathing, irregular heartbeats, and loss of consciousness.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the miss dose as soon as you remember or skip it if your next dose is approaching soon. Never double up on dosages.

What is the best way to store this medication?

Keep this medication stored at room temperature, away from light, heat and moisture. Keep hidden from children and pets.

What should I avoid while using this medication?

During the duration of treatment with Norpace, avoid drinking alcohol. Drinking alcohol while taking Norpace can cause the risk of side effects to increase.

What is the best dosage to take?

The recommended dosage for the average adult weighing over 110 pounds (50kg) is 600mg per day given in divided doses. The dose may look one of two ways, depending on if you take the immediate release method (Norpace) or the extended release (Norpace LA):

1.       Norpace: 150mg every 6 hours

2.       Norpace LA: 300mg every 12 hours