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Norpace Warnings and Precautions
There are potentially dangerous and even life-threatening complications that can occur while using Norpace. Some precautions for using this drug safely include warnings for people who have a weakened or enlarged heart, those with certain allergies, and people with liver or kidney problems. Some of the complications that can occur include heart failure, extremely low blood glucose levels, and drug interactions.
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Norpace® (disopyramide) if you have:- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- Liver disease, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver failure
- Heart disease, such as congestive heart failure (CHF)
- Had a heart attack in the past two years
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Been told you have abnormal blood potassium levels (hyper- or hypokalemia)
- Heart rhythm problems (other than the problem for which you are taking Norpace), such as:
- Atrial fibrillation
- Atrial flutter
- Sick sinus syndrome
- Heart block
- Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome
- A fast or slow heart rate
- A heart problem known as QT prolongation or congenital long QT syndrome
- Diabetes
- Benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate
- Glaucoma or a family history of glaucoma
- Myasthenia gravis (a nervous system disorder that causes muscle weakness)
- Problems urinating (urinary retention)
- Any allergies, including to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
- Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
- Breastfeeding.
You should also tell your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH, BCPP
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD