Procainamide

Definition

Procainamide is a Class I antiarrhythmic medication used to treat ventricular and atrial dysrhythmias. It works by blocking sodium channels, thereby slowing conduction and prolonging the cardiac action potential.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Procainamide is primarily used in the management of acute ventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation.
2. It operates by inhibiting sodium influx into myocardial cells, which helps stabilize the cardiac membrane.
3. Common side effects include hypotension, lupus-like syndrome, and gastrointestinal disturbances.
4. Procainamide has a black box warning for increasing the risk of mortality in non-life-threatening arrhythmias.
5. The drug is administered intravenously or orally, with dosage adjustments often required for patients with renal impairment.

Review Questions

• What class of antiarrhythmic drug is procainamide?
• What are two common side effects associated with procainamide?
• In what form can procainamide be administered?

Related terms

Sodium Channel Blockers: A class of drugs that inhibit sodium influx in cardiac cells to manage dysrhythmias.

Ventricular Tachycardia: A type of fast heart rate that originates from the lower chambers of the heart.

Lupus-like Syndrome: An autoimmune condition induced by certain medications, characterized by symptoms such as joint pain and rashes.