Rhythmonorm

When are you taking this medicine?
advertisement

Rhythmonorm uses


WARNING: MORTALITY


W A RN I N G: M ORTALITY

S e e full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.


Contraindications (4)

3/2013
Warnings and Precautions, Unmasking Brugada Syndrome (5.2) 3/2013

advertisement

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets are indicated to:


Usage Considerations:


Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets are an antiarrhythmic indicated to:


U sage Considerations:

advertisement

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

The dose of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets must be individually titrated on the basis of response and tolerance. Initiate therapy with Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets 150 mg given every eight hours (450 mg/day). Dosage may be increased at a minimum of 3 to 4 day intervals to 225 mg every 8 hours (675 mg/day). If additional therapeutic effect is needed, the dose of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets may be increased to 300 mg every 8 hours (900 mg/day). The usefulness and safety of dosages exceeding 900 mg per day have not been established.

In patients with hepatic impairment or those with significant widening of the QRS complex or second or third degree AV block, consider reducing the dose.

As with other antiarrhythmic agents, in the elderly or in ventricular arrhythmia patients with marked previous myocardial damage, the dose of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets should be increased more gradually during the initial phase of treatment.

The combination of CYP3A4 inhibition and either CYP2D6 deficiency or CYP2D6 inhibition with the simultaneous administration of Rhythmonorm may significantly increase the concentration of Rhythmonorm and thereby increase the risk of proarrhythmia and other adverse events. Therefore, avoid simultaneous use of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets with both a CYP2D6 inhibitor and a CYP3A4 inhibitor [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Drug Interactions (7.1)].

advertisement

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

150 mg, 225 mg and 300 mg scored, round, film-coated tablets.

Tablets: 150 mg, 225 mg, 300 mg (3)

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

Rhythmonorm hydrochloride is contraindicated in the following circumstances:

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

5.1 Proarrhythmic Effects

Rhythmonorm has caused new or worsened arrhythmias. Such proarrhythmic effects include sudden death and life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, asystole and torsade de pointes. It may also worsen premature ventricular contractions or supraventricular arrhythmias, and it may prolong the QT interval. It is therefore essential that each patient given Rhythmonorm hydrochloride be evaluated electrocardiographically prior to and during therapy to determine whether the response to Rhythmonorm hydrochloride supports continued treatment. Because Rhythmonorm prolongs the QRS interval in the electrocardiogram, changes in the QT interval are difficult to interpret [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)].

In a U.S. uncontrolled, open label, multicenter trial in patients with symptomatic supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), 1.9% (9/474) of these patients experienced ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF) during the study. However, in 4 of the 9 patients, the ventricular tachycardia was of atrial origin. Six of the nine patients that developed ventricular arrhythmias did so within 14 days of onset of therapy. About 2.3% (11/474) of all patients had a recurrence of SVT during the study which could have been a change in the patients’ arrhythmia behavior or could represent a proarrhythmic event. Case reports in patients treated with Rhythmonorm for atrial fibrillation/flutter have included increased premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), VT, VF, torsade de pointes, asystole, and death.

Overall in clinical trials with Rhythmonorm hydrochloride (which included patients treated for ventricular arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation/flutter, and PSVT), 4.7% of all patients had new or worsened ventricular arrhythmia possibly representing a proarrhythmic event (0.7% was an increase in PVCs; 4.0% a worsening, or new appearance, of VT or VF). Of the patients who had worsening of VT (4%), 92% had a history of VT and/or VT/VF, 71% had coronary artery disease, and 68% had a prior myocardial infarction. The incidence of proarrhythmia in patients with less serious or benign arrhythmias, which include patients with an increase in frequency of PVCs, was 1.6%. Although most proarrhythmic events occurred during the first week of therapy, late events also were seen and the CAST study suggests that an increased risk of proarrythmia is present throughout treatment.

In a study of sustained-release Rhythmonorm, there were too few deaths to assess the long term risk to patients. There were 5 deaths, 3 in the pooled sustained-release Rhythmonorm group (0.8%) and 2 in the placebo group (1.6%). In the overall sustained-release Rhythmonorm and Rhythmonorm hydrochloride immediate-release database of 8 studies, the mortality rate was 2.5% per year on Rhythmonorm and 4.0% per year on placebo. Concurrent use of Rhythmonorm with other antiarrhythmic agents has not been well studied.

5.2 Unmasking Brugada Syndrome

Brugada Syndrome may be unmasked after exposure to Rhythmonorm hydrochloride. Perform an ECG after initiation of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride, and discontinue the drug if changes are suggestive of Brugada Syndrome [see Contraindications ].

5.3 Use with Drugs that Prolong the QT Interval and Antiarrhythmic Agents

The use of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride in conjunction with other drugs that prolong the QT interval has not been extensively studied. Such drugs may include many antiarrhythmics, some phenothiazines, tricyclic antidepressants, and oral macrolides. Withhold Class IA and III antiarrhythmic agents for at least 5 half-lives prior to dosing with Rhythmonorm hydrochloride. Avoid the use of Rhythmonorm with Class IA and III antiarrhythmic agents (including quinidine and amiodarone). There is only limited experience with the concomitant use of Class IB or IC antiarrhythmics.

5.4 Drug Interactions: Simultaneous Use with Inhibitors of Cytochrome P450 Isoenzymes 2D6 and 3A4

Rhythmonorm is metabolized by CYP2D6, CYP3A4, and CYP1A2 isoenzymes. Approximately 6% of Caucasians in the U.S. population are naturally deficient in CYP2D6 activity and to a somewhat lesser extent in other demographic groups. Drugs that inhibit these CYP pathways can be expected to cause increased plasma levels of Rhythmonorm.

Increased exposure to Rhythmonorm may lead to cardiac arrhythmias and exaggerated beta-adrenergic blocking activity. Because of its metabolism, the combination of CYP3A4 inhibition and either CYP2D6 deficiency or CYP2D6 inhibition in users of Rhythmonorm is potentially hazardous. Therefore, avoid simultaneous use of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride with both a CYP2D6 inhibitor and a CYP3A4 inhibitor.

5.5 Use in Patients with a History of Heart Failure

Rhythmonorm exerts a negative inotropic activity on the myocardium as well as beta blockade effects and may provoke overt heart failure.

In clinical trial experience with Rhythmonorm hydrochloride, new or worsened congestive heart failure (CHF) has been reported in 3.7% of patients with ventricular arrhythmia; of those 0.9% were considered probably or definitely related to Rhythmonorm HCl. Of the patients with CHF probably related to Rhythmonorm, 80% had preexisting heart failure and 85% had coronary artery disease. CHF attributable to Rhythmonorm HCl developed rarely (< 0.2%) in ventricular arrhythmia patients who had no previous history of CHF. CHF occurred in 1.9% of patients studied with PAF or PSVT.

In a U.S. trial of sustained-release Rhythmonorm in patients with symptomatic AF, heart failure was reported in 4 (1.0%) patients receiving sustained-release Rhythmonorm (all doses), compared to 1 (0.8%) patient receiving placebo.

5.6 Conduction Disturbances

Rhythmonorm slows atrioventricular conduction and may also cause dose-related first degree AV block. Average PR interval prolongation and increases in QRS duration are also dose-related. Do not give Rhythmonorm to patients with atrioventricular and intraventricular conduction defects in the absence of a pacemaker [see Contraindications and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)].

The incidence of first degree, second degree, and third degree AV block observed in 2,127 ventricular arrhythmia patients was 2.5%, 0.6%, and 0.2%, respectively. Development of second or third degree AV block requires a reduction in dosage or discontinuation of Rhythmonorm HCl. Bundle branch block (1.2%) and intraventricular conduction delay (1.1%) have been reported in patients receiving Rhythmonorm. Bradycardia has also been reported (1.5%). Experience in patients with sick sinus node syndrome is limited and these patients should not be treated with Rhythmonorm.

In a U.S. trial in 523 patients with a history of symptomatic AF treated with sustained-release Rhythmonorm, sinus bradycardia (rate <50 beats/min) was reported with the same frequency with sustained-release Rhythmonorm and placebo.

5.7 Effects on Pacemaker Threshold

Rhythmonorm may alter both pacing and sensing thresholds of implanted pacemakers and defibrillators. During and after therapy, monitor and re-program these devices accordingly.

5.8 Agranulocytosis

Agranulocytosis has been reported in patients receiving Rhythmonorm. Generally, the agranulocytosis occurred within the first 2 months of Rhythmonorm therapy and upon discontinuation of therapy, the white count usually normalized by 14 days. Unexplained fever or decrease in white cell count, particularly during the initial 3 months of therapy, warrant consideration of possible agranulocytosis or granulocytopenia. Instruct patients to report promptly any signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, or chills.

5.9 Use in Patients with Hepatic Dysfunction

Rhythmonorm is highly metabolized by the liver. Severe liver dysfunction increases the bioavailability of Rhythmonorm to approximately 70% compared to 3 to 40% in patients with normal liver function. In 8 patients with moderate to severe liver disease, the mean half-life was approximately 9 hours. Increased bioavailability of Rhythmonorm in these patients may result in excessive accumulation. Carefully monitor patients with impaired hepatic function for excessive pharmacological effects [see Overdosage ].

5.10 Use in Patients with Renal Dysfunction

Approximately 50% of Rhythmonorm metabolites are excreted in the urine following administration of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride.

In patients with impaired renal function, monitor for signs of overdosage [see Overdosage (10)].

5.11 Use in Patients with Myasthenia Gravis

Exacerbation of myasthenia gravis has been reported during Rhythmonorm therapy.

5.12 Elevated ANA Titers

Positive ANA titers have been reported in patients receiving Rhythmonorm. They have been reversible upon cessation of treatment and may disappear even in the face of continued Rhythmonorm therapy. These laboratory findings were usually not associated with clinical symptoms, but there is one published case of drug-induced lupus erythematosis ; it resolved completely upon discontinuation of therapy. Carefully evaluate patients who develop an abnormal ANA test and, if persistent or worsening elevation of ANA titers is detected, consider discontinuing therapy.

5.13 Impaired Spermatogenesis

Reversible disorders of spermatogenesis have been demonstrated in monkeys, dogs and rabbits after high dose intravenous administration of Rhythmonorm. Evaluation of the effects of short-term Rhythmonorm hydrochloride administration on spermatogenesis in 11 normal subjects suggested that Rhythmonorm produced a reversible, short-term drop (within normal range) in sperm count.

advertisement

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

The most commonly reported adverse events with Rhythmonorm included: unusual taste, nausea and/or vomiting, dizziness, constipation, headache, fatigue, first degree AV block, and intraventricular conduction delay. (6.1)

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Par Pharmaceutical at 1-800-828-9393 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

Adverse reactions associated with Rhythmonorm hydrochloride occur most frequently in the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems. About 20% of patients treated with Rhythmonorm hydrochloride have discontinued treatment because of adverse reactions.

Adverse reactions reported for > 1.5% of 474 SVT patients who received Rhythmonorm hydrochloride in U.S. clinical trials are presented in Table 1 by incidence and percent discontinuation, reported to the nearest percent.

Incidence

(N = 480)

% of Pts. Who Discontinued
Unusual Taste 14% 1.3%
Nausea and/or Vomiting 11% 2.9%
Dizziness 9% 1.7%
Constipation 8% 0.2%
Headache 6% 0.8%
Fatigue 6% 1.5%
Blurred Vision 3% 0.6%
Weakness 3% 1.3%
Dyspnea 2% 1.0%
Wide Complex Tachycardia 2% 1.9%
CHF 2% 0.6%
Bradycardia 2% 0.2%
Palpitations 2% 0.2%
Tremor 2% 0.4%
Anorexia 2% 0.2%
Diarrhea 2% 0.4%
Ataxia 2% 0.0%

In controlled trials in patients with ventricular arrhythmia, the most common reactions reported for Rhythmonorm hydrochloride and more frequent than on placebo were unusual taste, dizziness, first degree AV block, intraventricular conduction delay, nausea and/or vomiting, and constipation. Headache was relatively common also, but was not increased compared to placebo. Other reactions reported more frequently than on placebo or comparator and not already reported elsewhere included anxiety, angina, second degree AV block, bundle branch block, loss of balance, congestive heart failure, and dyspepsia.

Adverse reactions reported for ≥ 1% of 2,127 ventricular arrhythmia patients who received Rhythmonorm in U.S. clinical trials were evaluated by daily dose. The most common adverse reactions appeared dose-related (but note that most patients spent more time at the larger doses), especially dizziness, nausea and/or vomiting, unusual taste, constipation, and blurred vision. Some less common reactions may also have been dose-related such as first degree AV block, congestive heart failure, dyspepsia, and weakness. Other adverse reactions included rash, syncope, chest pain, abdominal pain, ataxia, and hypotension.

In addition, the following adverse reactions were reported less frequently than 1% either in clinical trials or in marketing experience. Causality and relationship to Rhythmonorm therapy cannot necessarily be judged from these events.

Cardiovascular System: Atrial flutter, AV dissociation, cardiac arrest, flushing, hot flashes, sick sinus syndrome, sinus pause or arrest, supraventricular tachycardia.

Nervous System: Abnormal dreams, abnormal speech, abnormal vision, confusion, depression, memory loss, numbness, paresthesias, psychosis/mania, seizures (0.3%), tinnitus, unusual smell sensation, vertigo.

Gastrointestinal: Cholestasis, elevated liver enzymes (alkaline phosphatase, serum transaminases), gastroenteritis, hepatitis.

Hematologic: Agranulocytosis, anemia, bruising, granulocytopenia, leukopenia, purpura, thrombocytopenia.

Other: Alopecia, eye irritation, impotence, increased glucose, positive ANA (0.7%), muscle cramps, muscle weakness, nephrotic syndrome, pain, pruritus.

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

Gastrointestinal: A number of patients with liver abnormalities associated with Rhythmonorm therapy have been reported in post-marketing experience. Some appeared due to hepatocellular injury, some were cholestatic and some showed a mixed picture. Some of these reports were simply discovered through clinical chemistries, others because of clinical symptoms including fulminant hepatitis and death. One case was rechallenged with a positive outcome.

B lood and Lymphatic System: Increased bleeding time

Immune System: lupus erythematosis

Nervous System: Apnea, coma

Renal and Urinary: Hyponatremia/inappropriate ADH secretion, kidney failure

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS

7.1 CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 Inhibitors

Drugs that inhibit CYP2D6 (such as desipramine, paroxetine, ritonavir, or sertraline) and CYP3A4 (such as ketoconazole, ritonavir, saquinavir, erythromycin, or grapefruit juice) can be expected to cause increased plasma levels of Rhythmonorm. The combination of CYP3A4 inhibition and either CYP2D6 deficiency or CYP2D6 inhibition with administration of Rhythmonorm may increase the risk of adverse reactions, including proarrhythmia. Therefore, simultaneous use of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride with both a CYP2D6 inhibitor and a CYP3A4 inhibitor should be avoided [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Dosage and Administration (2)].

A m iodarone: Concomitant administration of Rhythmonorm and amiodarone can affect conduction and repolarization and is not recommended.

Cimetidine: Concomitant administration of Rhythmonorm immediate release tablets and cimetidine in 12 healthy subjects resulted in a 20% increase in steady-state plasma concentrations of Rhythmonorm.

Fluoxetine: Concomitant administration of Rhythmonorm and fluoxetine in extensive metabolizers increased the S-propafenone Cmax and AUC by 39% and 50% and the R Rhythmonorm Cmax and AUC by 71% and 50%.

Quinidine: Small doses of quinidine completely inhibit the CYP2D6 hydroxylation metabolic pathway, making all patients, in effect, slow metabolizers [see Clinical Pharmacology (12)]. Concomitant administration of quinidine (50 mg three times daily) with 150 mg immediate release Rhythmonorm three times daily decreased the clearance of Rhythmonorm by 60% in extensive metabolizers, making them slow metabolizers. Steady-state plasma concentrations more than doubled for Rhythmonorm, and decreased 50% for 5-OH-propafenone. A 100 mg dose of quinidine tripled steady state concentrations of Rhythmonorm. Avoid concomitant use of Rhythmonorm and quinidine.

Rifampin: Concomitant administration of rifampin and Rhythmonorm in extensive metabolizers decreased the plasma concentrations of Rhythmonorm by 67% with a corresponding decrease of 5-OH-propafenone by 65%. The concentrations of norpropafenone increased by 30%. In slow metabolizers, there was a 50% decrease in Rhythmonorm plasma concentrations and increased the AUC and Cmax of norpropafenone by 74% and 20%, respectively. Urinary excretion of Rhythmonorm and its metabolites decreased significantly. Similar results were noted in elderly patients: Both the AUC and Cmax Rhythmonorm decreased by 84%, with a corresponding decrease in AUC and Cmax of 5-OH-propafenone by 69% and 57%.

7.2 Digoxin

Concomitant use of Rhythmonorm and digoxin increased steady-state serum digoxin exposure in patients by 60% to 270%, and decreased the clearance of digoxin by 31% to 67%. Monitor plasma digoxin levels of patients receiving Rhythmonorm and adjust digoxin dosage as needed.

7.3 Warfarin

The concomitant administration of Rhythmonorm and warfarin increased warfarin plasma concentrations at steady state by 39% in healthy volunteers and prolonged the prothrombin time (PT) in patients taking warfarin. Adjust the warfarin dose as needed by monitoring INR (international normalized ratio).

7.4 Orlistat

Orlistat may limit the fraction of Rhythmonorm available for absorption. In post marketing reports, abrupt cessation of orlistat in patients stabilized on Rhythmonorm has resulted in severe adverse events including convulsions, atrioventricular block and acute circulatory failure.

7.5 Beta-Antagonists

Concomitant use of Rhythmonorm and propranolol in healthy subjects increased propranolol plasma concentrations at steady state by 113%. In 4 patients, administration of metoprolol with Rhythmonorm increased the metoprolol plasma concentrations at steady state by 100% to 400%. The pharmacokinetics of Rhythmonorm was not affected by the coadministration of either propranolol or metoprolol. In clinical trials using Rhythmonorm immediate release tablets, patients who were receiving beta-blockers concurrently did not experience an increased incidence of side effects.

7.6 Lidocaine

No significant effects on the pharmacokinetics of Rhythmonorm or lidocaine have been seen following their concomitant use in patients. However, concomitant use of Rhythmonorm and lidocaine has been reported to increase the risks of central nervous system side effects of lidocaine.

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

8.1 Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Rhythmonorm hydrochloride should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

An imal Data: T e r a togenic Effects: Rhythmonorm has been shown to be embryotoxic in rabbits and rats when given in oral maternally toxic doses of 150 mg/kg day (about 3 times the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD] on a mg/m2 basis) and 600 mg/kg/day (about 6 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis), respectively. Although maternally tolerated doses (up to 270 mg/kg/day, about 3 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis) produced no evidence of embryotoxicity in rats, post-implantation loss was elevated in all rabbit treatment groups (doses as low as 15 mg/kg/day, about 1/3 the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis).

Non-teratogenic Effects: In a study in which female rats received daily oral doses of Rhythmonorm from mid-gestation through weaning of their offspring, doses as low as 90 mg/kg/day (equivalent to the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis) produced increases in maternal deaths. Doses of 360 or more mg/kg/day (4 or more times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis) resulted in reductions in neonatal survival, body weight gain and physiological development.

8.2 Labor and Delivery

It is not known whether the use of Rhythmonorm during labor or delivery has immediate or delayed adverse effects on the fetus, or whether it prolongs the duration of labor or increases the need for forceps delivery or other obstetrical intervention.

8.3 Nursing Mothers

Rhythmonorm is excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from Rhythmonorm, decide whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

8.4 Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of Rhythmonorm in pediatric patients have not been established.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Clinical studies of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

10 OVERDOSAGE

The symptoms of overdosage may include hypotension, somnolence, bradycardia, intra-atrial and intraventricular conduction disturbances, and rarely convulsions and high grade ventricular arrhythmias. Defibrillation as well as infusion of dopamine and isoproterenol have been effective in controlling abnormal rhythm and blood pressure. Convulsions have been alleviated with intravenous diazepam. General supportive measures such as mechanical respiratory assistance and external cardiac massage may be necessary.

The hemodialysis of Rhythmonorm in patients with an overdose is expected to be of limited value in the removal of Rhythmonorm as a result of both its high protein binding (>95%) and large volume of distribution.

11 DESCRIPTION

Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets, USP are an antiarrhythmic drug supplied in scored, film-coated tablets of 150, 225 and 300 mg for oral administration. Rhythmonorm has some structural similarities to beta-blocking agents.

Chemically, Rhythmonorm hydrochloride (HCl) is 2’-[2-Hydroxy-3-(propylamino)- propoxy]-3-phenylpropiophenone hydrochloride, with a molecular weight of 377.92. The molecular formula is C21H27NO3-HCl. The structural formula of Rhythmonorm HCl is given below:

Rhythmonorm HCl occurs as colorless crystals or white crystalline powder with a very bitter taste. It is slightly soluble in water (20°C), chloroform and ethanol. The following inactive ingredients are contained in the tablet: carnauba wax, hypromellose, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, pregelatinized corn starch, sodium starch glycolate, stearic acid, titanium dioxide and triacetin.

This is the structural formula for Rhythmonorm HCl.

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

12.1 Mechanism of Action

Rhythmonorm is a Class 1C antiarrhythmic drug with local anesthetic effects, and a direct stabilizing action on myocardial membranes. The electrophysiological effect of Rhythmonorm manifests itself in a reduction of upstroke velocity of the monophasic action potential. In Purkinje fibers, and to a lesser extent myocardial fibers, Rhythmonorm reduces the fast inward current carried by sodium ions. Diastolic excitability threshold is increased and effective refractory period prolonged. Rhythmonorm reduces spontaneous automaticity and depresses triggered activity.

Studies in anesthetized dogs and isolated organ preparations show that Rhythmonorm has beta-sympatholytic activity at about 1/50 the potency of propranolol. Clinical studies employing isoproterenol challenge and exercise testing after single doses of Rhythmonorm indicate a beta- adrenergic blocking potency (per mg) about 1/40 that of propranolol in man. In clinical trials, resting heart rate decreases of about 8% were noted at the higher end of the therapeutic plasma concentration range. At very high concentrations in vitro, Rhythmonorm can inhibit the slow inward current carried by calcium, but this calcium antagonist effect probably does not contribute to antiarrhythmic efficacy. Moreover, Rhythmonorm inhibits a variety of cardiac potassium currents in in vitro studies (i.e. the transient outward, the delayed rectifier, and the inward rectifier current). Rhythmonorm has local anesthetic activity approximately equal to procaine. Compared to Rhythmonorm, the main metabolite, 5-hydroxypropafenone, has similar sodium and calcium channel activity, but about 10 times less beta-blocking activity (N-depropylpropafenone has weaker sodium channel activity but equivalent affinity for beta-receptors).

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

E lectrophysiology: Electrophysiology studies in patients with ventricular tachycardia have shown that Rhythmonorm prolongs atrioventricular conduction while having little or no effect on sinus node function. Both atrioventricular nodal conduction time (AH interval) and His-Purkinje conduction time (HV interval) are prolonged. Rhythmonorm has little or no effect on the atrial functional refractory period, but AV nodal functional and effective refractory periods are prolonged. In patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, Rhythmonorm hydrochloride reduces conduction and increases the effective refractory period of the accessory pathway in both directions.

E lectrocardiograms: Rhythmonorm slows prolongs the PR and QRS intervals. Prolongation of the QRS interval makes it difficult to interpret the effect of Rhythmonorm on the QT interval.

T able 2: Mean Changes in Electrocardiogram Intervalsa

Total Daily Dose (mg)
337.5 mg 450 mg 675 mg 900 mg
Interval msec % msec % msec % msec %
RR -14.5 -1.8 30.6 3.8 31.5 3.9 41.7 5.1
PR 3.6 2.1 19.1 11.6 28.9 17.8 35.6 21.9
QRS 5.6 6.4 5.5 6.1 7.7 8.4 15.6 17.3
QTc 2.7 0.7 -7.5 -1.8 5.0 1.2 14.7 3.7

aChange and percent change based on mean baseline values for each treatment group.

In any individual patient, the above ECG changes cannot be readily used to predict either efficacy or plasma concentration.

Rhythmonorm hydrochloride causes a dose-related and concentration-related decrease in the rate of single and multiple premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) and can suppress recurrence of ventricular tachycardia. Based on the percent of patients attaining substantial (80% to 90%) suppression of ventricular ectopic activity, it appears that trough plasma levels of 0.2 to 1.5 µg/mL can provide good suppression, with higher concentrations giving a greater rate of good response.

When 600 mg/day Rhythmonorm was administered to patients with paroxysmal atrial tachyarrhythmias, mean heart rate during arrhythmia decreased 14 beats/min and 37 beats/min for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter (PAF) patients and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) patients, respectively.

Hemodynamics: Studies in humans have shown that Rhythmonorm HCl exerts a negative inotropic effect on the myocardium. Cardiac catheterization studies in patients with moderately impaired ventricular function (mean C.I. = 2.61 L/min/m2) utilizing intravenous Rhythmonorm infusions (loading dose of 2 mg/kg over 10 min followed by 2 mg/min for 30 min) that gave mean plasma concentrations of 3.0 µg/mL (a dose that produces plasma levels of Rhythmonorm greater than does recommended oral dosing) showed significant increases in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, systemic and pulmonary vascular resistances and depression of cardiac output and cardiac index.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Ab sorption/Bioavailability: Propafenone HCl is nearly completely absorbed after oral administration with peak plasma levels occurring approximately 3.5 hours after administration in most individuals. Rhythmonorm exhibits extensive saturable presystemic biotransformation (first pass effect) resulting in a dose dependent and dosage form dependent absolute bioavailability; e.g., a 150 mg tablet had absolute bioavailability of 3.4%, while a 300 mg tablet had absolute bioavailability of 10.6%. A 300 mg solution which was rapidly absorbed had absolute bioavailability of 21.4%. At still larger doses, above those recommended, bioavailability increases still further.

Rhythmonorm HCl follows a nonlinear pharmacokinetic disposition presumably because of saturation of first pass hepatic metabolism as the liver is exposed to higher concentrations of Rhythmonorm and shows a very high degree of interindividual variability. For example, for an increase in daily dose from 300 to 900 mg/day there is a 10-fold increase in steady-state plasma concentration. The top 25% of patients given 337.5 mg/day, however, had a mean concentration of Rhythmonorm larger than the bottom 25%, and about equal to the second 25%, of patients given a dose of 900 mg. Although food increased peak blood level and bioavailability in a single dose study, during multiple dose administration of Rhythmonorm to healthy volunteers food did not change bioavailability significantly.

Distribution: Following intravenous administration of Rhythmonorm, plasma levels decline in a bi-phasic manner consistent with a 2 compartment pharmacokinetic model. The average distribution half-life corresponding to the first phase was about 5 minutes. The volume of the central compartment was about 88 liters (1.1 L/kg) and the total volume of distribution about 252 liters.

In serum, Rhythmonorm is greater than 95% bound to proteins within the concentration range of 0.5 to 2 µg/mL.

M e tabolism: There are two genetically determined patterns of Rhythmonorm metabolism. In over 90% of patients, the drug is rapidly and extensively metabolized with an elimination half- life from 2 to 10 hours. These patients metabolize Rhythmonorm into two active metabolites: 5- hydroxypropafenone which is formed by CYP2D6 and N-depropylpropafenone (norpropafenone) which is formed by both CYP3A4 and CYP1A2.

In less than 10% of patients, metabolism of Rhythmonorm is slower because the 5-hydroxy metabolite is not formed or is minimally formed. In these patients, the estimated Rhythmonorm elimination half-life ranges from 10 to 32 hours. Decreased ability to form the 5-hydroxy metabolite of Rhythmonorm is associated with a diminished ability to metabolize debrisoquine and a variety of other drugs (such as encainide, metoprolol, and dextromethorphan) whose metabolism is mediated by the CYP2D6 isozyme. In these patients, the N-depropylpropafenone metabolite occurs in quantities comparable to the levels occurring in extensive metabolizers.

There are significant differences in plasma concentrations of Rhythmonorm in slow and extensive metabolizers, the former achieving concentrations 1.5 to 2.0 times those of the extensive metabolizers at daily doses of 675 to 900 mg/day. At low doses the differences are greater, with slow metabolizers attaining concentrations more than five times that of extensive metabolizers. Because the difference decreases at high doses and is mitigated by the lack of the active 5-hydroxy metabolite in the slow metabolizers, and because steady-state conditions are achieved after 4 to 5 days of dosing in all patients, the recommended dosing regimen is the same for all patients. The greater variability in blood levels require that the drug be titrated carefully in patients with close attention paid to clinical and ECG evidence of toxicity [see Dosage and Administration (2)].

S tereochemistry: Rhythmonorm hydrochloride is a racemic mixture. The R- and S-enantiomers of Rhythmonorm display stereoselective disposition characteristics. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that the R-isomer of Rhythmonorm is cleared faster than the S-isomer via the 5-hydroxylation pathway (CYP2D6). This results in a higher ratio of S-propafenone to R-propafenone at steady state. Both enantiomers have equivalent potency to block sodium channels; however, the S-enantiomer is a more potent β-antagonist than the R-enantiomer. Following administration of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride immediate-release tablets, the S/R ratio for the area under the plasma concentration-time curve was about 1.7. In addition, no difference in the average values of the S/R ratios is evident between genotypes or over time.

Spe cial Populations: H epa tic Impairment: Decreased liver function increases the bioavailability of Rhythmonorm. Absolute bioavailability of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride immediate-release tablets is inversely related to indocyanine green clearance, reaching 60-70% at clearances of 7 mL/min and below. Protein binding decreases to about 88% in patients with severe hepatic dysfunction. The clearance of Rhythmonorm is reduced and the elimination half-life increased in patients with significant hepatic dysfunction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].

13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Lifetime maximally tolerated oral dose studies in mice and rats (up to 270 mg/kg/day, about 3 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis) provided no evidence of a carcinogenic potential for Rhythmonorm HCl.

Rhythmonorm HCl tested negative for mutagenicity in the Ames (salmonella) test and in the in vivo mouse dominant lethal test. It tested negative for clastogenicity in the human lymphocyte chromosome aberration assay in vitro and in rat and Chinese hamster micronucleus tests, and other in vivo tests for chromosomal aberrations in rat bone marrow and Chinese hamster bone marrow and spermatogonia.

Rhythmonorm HCl, administered intravenously to rabbits, dogs, and monkeys, has been shown to decrease spermatogenesis. These effects were reversible, were not found following oral dosing of Rhythmonorm HCl, were seen at lethal or near lethal dose levels and were not seen in rats treated either orally or intravenously [see Warnings and Precautions (5.13)]. Treatment of male rabbits for 10 weeks prior to mating at an oral dose of 120 mg/kg/day (about 2.4 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis) or an intravenous dose of 3.5 mg/kg/day (a spermatogenesis-impairing dose) did not result in evidence of impaired fertility. Nor was there evidence of impaired fertility when Rhythmonorm HCl was administered orally to male and female rats at dose levels up to 270 mg/kg/day (about 3 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis).

13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology

Renal changes have been observed in the rat following 6 months of oral administration of Rhythmonorm HCl at doses of 180 and 360 mg/kg/day (about 2 and 4 times, respectively, the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis). Both inflammatory and non-inflammatory changes in the renal tubules, with accompanying interstitial nephritis, were observed. These changes were reversible, as they were not found in rats allowed to recover for 6 weeks. Fatty degenerative changes of the liver were found in rats following longer durations of administration of Rhythmonorm HCl at a dose of 270 mg/kg/day (about 3 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis). There were no renal or hepatic changes at 90 mg/kg/day (equivalent to the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis).

14 CLINICAL STUDIES

In two randomized, crossover, placebo-controlled, double-blind trials of 60 to 90 days duration in patients with paroxysmal supraventricular arrhythmias [paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter (PAF), or paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT)], Rhythmonorm reduced the rate of both arrhythmias, as shown in Table 3.

Study 1 Study 2
Propafenone Placebo Propafenone Placebo

PAF


n = 30


n = 30


n = 9


n = 9


Percent attack free


53%


13%


67%


22%

Median time to first recurrence > 98 days 8 days 62 days 5 days

PSVT


n = 45


n = 45


n = 15


N = 15


Percent attack free


47%


16%


38%


7%

Median time to first recurrence > 98 days 12 days 31 days 8 days

The patient population in the above trials was 50% male with a mean age of 57.3 years. Fifty percent of the patients had a diagnosis of PAF and 50% had PSVT. Eighty percent of the patients received 600 mg/day Rhythmonorm. No patient died in the above 2 studies.

In U.S. long-term safety trials, 474 patients (mean age: 57.4 ± 14.5 years) with supraventricular arrhythmias [195 with PAF, 274 with PSVT and 5 with both PAF and PSVT] were treated up to 5 years (mean: 14.4 months) with Rhythmonorm. Fourteen of the patients died. When this mortality rate was compared to the rate in a similar patient population (n = 194 patients; mean age: 43.0 ± 16.8 years) studied in an arrhythmia clinic, there was no age-adjusted difference in mortality. This comparison was not, however, a randomized trial and the 95% confidence interval around the comparison was large, such that neither a significant adverse or favorable effect could be ruled out.

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets, USP are supplied as white, scored, round, film-coated tablets in three dosage strengths:

150 mg tablets debossed “5124” and “V” available as follows:


225 mg tablets debossed “5125” and “V” available as follows:


300 mg tablets debossed “5126” and “V” available as follows:


STORE at 20º to 25ºC (68º to 77ºF).

DISPENSE in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP.

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

17.1 Information for Patients


Distributed by:

Par Pharmaceutical

Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977

8182244

Revised: 08/17

R6

PA T I ENT INFORMATION

Rhythmonorm Hydrochloride T abl ets

What are Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets?

Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets are a prescription medicine that is used:


It is not known if Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets are safe and effective in children.

Who should not take Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets?

D o not take Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets if you have:


Talk to your doctor before taking Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets if you think you have any of the conditions listed above.

What should I tell my doctor before taking Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets?

Before you take Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets, tell your doctor if you:


T ell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets and certain other medicines can affect (interact with) each other and cause serious side effects. You can ask your pharmacist for a list of medicines that interact with Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets.

Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your doctor and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

How should I take Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets ?


What are possible side effects of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets?

Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets can cause serious side effects including:


Common side effects of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets include:


Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

These are not all the possible side effects of Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

How should I store Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets?


Keep Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets a n d all medicines out of the reach of children.

G eneral information about Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets

Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information Leaflet. Do not use Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets to other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have. It may harm them.

If you would like more information, talk with your doctor. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist for information about Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets that is written for health professionals. For more information about Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets, call 1-800-828-9393.

What are the ingredients in Rhythmonorm hydrochloride tablets?

Active ingredient: Rhythmonorm hydrochloride

Inactive ingredients: carnauba wax, hypromellose, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, pregelatinized corn starch, sodium starch glycolate, stearic acid, titanium dioxide and triacetin.

This Patient Information has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Distributed by:

Par Pharmaceutical

Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977

8183640

Revised: 08/17

R2

Rhythmonorm pharmaceutical active ingredients containing related brand and generic drugs:

Active ingredient is the part of the drug or medicine which is biologically active. This portion of the drug is responsible for the main action of the drug which is intended to cure or reduce the symptom or disease. The other portions of the drug which are inactive are called excipients; there role is to act as vehicle or binder. In contrast to active ingredient, the inactive ingredient's role is not significant in the cure or treatment of the disease. There can be one or more active ingredients in a drug.


Rhythmonorm available forms, composition, doses:

Form of the medicine is the form in which the medicine is marketed in the market, for example, a medicine X can be in the form of capsule or the form of chewable tablet or the form of tablet. Sometimes same medicine can be available as injection form. Each medicine cannot be in all forms but can be marketed in 1, 2, or 3 forms which the pharmaceutical company decided based on various background research results.
Composition is the list of ingredients which combinedly form a medicine. Both active ingredients and inactive ingredients form the composition. The active ingredient gives the desired therapeutic effect whereas the inactive ingredient helps in making the medicine stable.
Doses are various strengths of the medicine like 10mg, 20mg, 30mg and so on. Each medicine comes in various doses which is decided by the manufacturer, that is, pharmaceutical company. The dose is decided on the severity of the symptom or disease.


Rhythmonorm destination | category:

Destination is defined as the organism to which the drug or medicine is targeted. For most of the drugs what we discuss, human is the drug destination.
Drug category can be defined as major classification of the drug. For example, an antihistaminic or an antipyretic or anti anginal or pain killer, anti-inflammatory or so.


Rhythmonorm Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical codes:

A medicine is classified depending on the organ or system it acts [Anatomical], based on what result it gives on what disease, symptom [Therapeutical], based on chemical composition [Chemical]. It is called as ATC code. The code is based on Active ingredients of the medicine. A medicine can have different codes as sometimes it acts on different organs for different indications. Same way, different brands with same active ingredients and same indications can have same ATC code.


Rhythmonorm pharmaceutical companies:

Pharmaceutical companies are drug manufacturing companies that help in complete development of the drug from the background research to formation, clinical trials, release of the drug into the market and marketing of the drug.
Researchers are the persons who are responsible for the scientific research and is responsible for all the background clinical trials that resulted in the development of the drug.


advertisement

References

  1. "propafenone". https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/co... (accessed August 28, 2018).
  2. "propafenone". http://www.drugbank.ca/drugs/DB0118... (accessed August 28, 2018).
  3. "propafenone: Link to the compound information in Wikipedia.". https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Propa... (accessed August 28, 2018).

Frequently asked Questions

Can i drive or operate heavy machine after consuming Rhythmonorm?

Depending on the reaction of the Rhythmonorm after taken, if you are feeling dizziness, drowsiness or any weakness as a reaction on your body, Then consider Rhythmonorm not safe to drive or operate heavy machine after consumption. Meaning that, do not drive or operate heavy duty machines after taking the capsule if the capsule has a strange reaction on your body like dizziness, drowsiness. As prescribed by a pharmacist, it is dangerous to take alcohol while taking medicines as it exposed patients to drowsiness and health risk. Please take note of such effect most especially when taking Primosa capsule. It's advisable to consult your doctor on time for a proper recommendation and medical consultations.

Is Rhythmonorm addictive or habit forming?

Medicines are not designed with the mind of creating an addiction or abuse on the health of the users. Addictive Medicine is categorically called Controlled substances by the government. For instance, Schedule H or X in India and schedule II-V in the US are controlled substances.

Please consult the medicine instruction manual on how to use and ensure it is not a controlled substance.In conclusion, self medication is a killer to your health. Consult your doctor for a proper prescription, recommendation, and guidiance.

advertisement

Review

sdrugs.com conducted a study on Rhythmonorm, and the result of the survey is set out below. It is noteworthy that the product of the survey is based on the perception and impressions of the visitors of the website as well as the views of Rhythmonorm consumers. We, as a result of this, advice that you do not base your therapeutic or medical decisions on this result, but rather consult your certified medical experts for their recommendations.

Visitor reports

Visitor reported useful

No survey data has been collected yet

Visitor reported side effects

No survey data has been collected yet

Visitor reported price estimates

No survey data has been collected yet

Visitor reported frequency of use

No survey data has been collected yet

Visitor reported doses

No survey data has been collected yet

Visitor reported time for results

No survey data has been collected yet

Visitor reported administration

No survey data has been collected yet

Visitor reported age

No survey data has been collected yet

Visitor reviews


There are no reviews yet. Be the first to write one!


Your name: 
Email: 
Spam protection:  < Type 29 here

The information was verified by Dr. Rachana Salvi, MD Pharmacology

© 2002 - 2024 "sdrugs.com". All Rights Reserved