Mexitil (Mexiletine)

Do’s

• Take Mexiletine by mouth with food or an antacid, exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually 2 to 3 times daily. This helps reduce side effects like nausea and heartburn.
• Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about compatible antacids.
• Take Mexiletine with a full glass of water (8 ounces) unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.
• Take Mexiletine consistently at the same times each day for maximum benefit.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition doesn't improve or worsens after using Mexiletine.

Don'ts

• Don't take Mexiletine without food or an antacid, as this can increase side effects.
• Don't take more Mexiletine than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't skip doses or stop taking Mexiletine without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't take Mexiletine with grapefruit juice, as it can affect how the medication works in your body.

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Heartburn
• Diarrhea
• Lightheadedness
• Tremor
• Coordination difficulties
• Rash
• Diaphoresis (excessive sweating)
• Hot flashes
• Dry skin
• Urinary hesitancy and retention
• Impotence
• Decreased libido

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Irregular heartbeat
• Chest pain
• Extreme tiredness
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Lack of energy
• Pain in the upper right part of the stomach
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Flu-like symptoms
• Signs of liver problems, such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine
• Worsening symptoms of heart failure, such as shortness of breath, swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, unusual/sudden weight gain
• Chest pain
• Seizure
• Serious skin reactions, such as fevers or flu-like symptoms with a rash, red or purple rash turning into blisters or peeling of the skin

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Mexitil,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Disclose any allergies you have to Mexiletine or other ingredients in the medication.

Medical history to discuss with your healthcare provider:

• Heart problems: Inform your healthcare provider about any existing heart problems, such as heart failure, slow heartbeat, or a previous heart attack.
• Liver problems
• Seizure disorder

Mexiletine may cause dizziness or blurred vision. Avoid activities requiring alertness or clear vision (driving, operating machinery) until you feel safe. Limit alcohol and marijuana use which can worsen these effects.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take (prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products) before surgery.

Mexiletine should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Mexiletine passes into breast milk but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult with your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

While Mexiletine helps with irregular heartbeat, it may rarely cause a new serious irregular heartbeat. In some cases, hospitalization for monitoring might be recommended when starting treatment. Discuss the benefits and risks of taking Mexiletine with your healthcare provider.

Keep track of all medications you take (prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products). Share the list of drug interactions with your healthcare provider. This allows them to identify potential interactions with Mexiletine.

Avoid medication adjustments without consulting your healthcare provider. Never start, stop, or change the dosage of any medications without consulting your health provider.

Mexiletine can interact with certain medications, including:

• Caffeine
• Fezolinetant
• Theophylline
• Medications affecting urine pH (like sodium bicarbonate, and high doses of vitamin C)

Mexiletine removal from your body can be affected by other medications, such as:

• Cimetidine
• Fluvoxamine
• Propafenone
• Anti-seizure drugs (phenytoin, phenobarbital, etc.)