Propafenone: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
In patients without structural heart disease, propafenone is indicated to prolong the time to recurrence of – paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter (PAF) associated with disabling symptoms.
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label a7c8f090…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
| Adverse reaction (as reported in labeling) | Reported frequency* |
|---|---|
| Unusual taste | 14% |
| Nausea and/or vomiting | 11% |
| Fever | 10% |
| Dizziness | 9% |
| Constipation | 8% |
| Headache(s) | 8% |
| Abdominal pain/cramps | 8% |
| Dyspepsia | 8% |
| Headache | 6% |
| Fatigue | 6% |
| Dry mouth | 6% |
| First degree av block | 5% |
| Intraventricular conduction delay | 4% |
| Angina | 4% |
| Blurred vision | 3% |
| Weakness | 3% |
| Ventricular tachycardia | 3% |
| Rash | 3% |
| Av block, first degree | 3% |
| Dyspnea | 2% |
*Highest percentage reported for the active moiety across placebo-controlled trial tables in current FDA labeling. Values reflect trial reporting, not your individual risk.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
In patients without structural heart disease, propafenone is indicated to prolong the time to recurrence of – paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter (PAF) associated with disabling symptoms. – paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) associated with disabling symptoms. As with other agents, some patients with atrial flutter treated with propafenone have developed 1:1 conduction, producing an increase in ventricular rate. Concomitant treatment with drugs that increase the functional AV refractory period is recommended. The use of propafenone HCl in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation has not been evaluated. Propafenone HCl should not be used to control ventricular rate during atrial fibrillation. Propafenone HCl is also indicated for the treatment of – documented ventricular arrhythmias, such as sustained ventricular tachycardia, that, in the judgment of the physician, are life-threatening. Because of the proarrhythmic effects of propafenone HCl, its use with lesser ventricular arrhythmias is not recommended, even if patients are symptomatic, and any use of the drug should be reserved for patients in whom, in the opinion of the physician, the potential benefits outweigh …
Conditions associated with Propafenone in labeling
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Propafenone used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Propafenone?
The table above shows adverse reactions and the highest frequencies reported in placebo-controlled trials summarized in current FDA labeling for Propafenone. Individual risk varies.
Does Propafenone require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Propafenone.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.