Welhart 150mg Capsule

Introduction

Welhart is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient Mexiletine. It is available in capsule form and is commonly used to treat certain heart rhythm disorders.

Uses

Welhart is primarily prescribed to manage ventricular arrhythmias, which are abnormal heart rhythms that originate in the ventricles, the lower chambers of the heart. It helps stabilize the heart’s electrical activity and restore a normal rhythm.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Welhart may vary depending on the individual’s condition and response to treatment. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Typically, the initial recommended dose is 200 mg taken orally every 8 hours. The dose may be adjusted based on your specific needs.

Mechanism of Action

Welhart works by blocking certain sodium channels in the heart, which helps regulate the electrical signals responsible for maintaining a normal heart rhythm. By inhibiting abnormal electrical impulses, it helps prevent irregular heartbeats and reduces the risk of potentially serious arrhythmias.

Side Effects

Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, and tremors. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, if they persist or become bothersome, consult your healthcare professional.

In rare cases, Welhart may cause serious side effects such as heart rhythm disturbances, liver problems, and allergic reactions. If you experience any chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, swelling), seek immediate medical attention.

Drug Interactions

Welhart may interact with certain medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Inform your healthcare professional about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products. Some common drug interactions include:

• Cimetidine: May increase the blood levels of Mexiletine, potentially increasing the risk of side effects.
• Quinidine: May increase the effects of Welhart, leading to an increased risk of heart rhythm disturbances.
• Phenytoin: May reduce the effectiveness of Welhart.

Discuss all potential drug interactions with your healthcare professional to ensure the safe and effective use of Welhart.

Precautions

Before starting Welhart, inform your healthcare professional about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or medications you are taking. Discuss the following precautions:

• Contraindications: Welhart is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to Mexiletine or any of its components. It should also be avoided in patients with certain heart conditions, such as complete heart block or cardiogenic shock.
• Liver and Kidney Function: Welhart may affect liver and kidney function. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function tests may be necessary during treatment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The use of Welhart during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with your healthcare professional. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks.

Storage

Welhart should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication out of the reach of children and pets. Do not use Welhart if it has exceeded the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Patient Tips

• Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare professional. Do not adjust the dose or stop taking it without consulting them.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
• attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare professional to monitor your response to the medication and evaluate any potential side effects.
• Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Welhart, as it may increase the levels of the medication in your bloodstream.
• If you have any concerns or questions about Welhart or its use, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare professional for clarification.

Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.

References

• Mexiletine hydrochloride 100 mg Hard Capsules (Health Professionals SmPC) Available at:
• Mexiletine (Drugs.com) [Accessed 3 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• mexiletine (mexitil) (RX) [Accessed 13 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Mexiletine (MedlinePlus) [Accessed 11 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Olleik F, Kamareddine MH, Spears J, Tse G, Liu T, Yan GX. Mexiletine: Antiarrhythmic mechanisms, emerging clinical applications and mortality. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. 2023 Nov;46(11):1348-1356. doi: 10.1111/pace.14846. Epub 2023 Oct 17. [Accessed 13 Jun. 2024] Available at: