The Basics
What is Propafenone?
Used to prevent irregular heartbeats such as atrial fibrillation.
Brand names for Propafenone
Rythmol, Rythmol Sr
How Propafenone is classified
Antiarrhythmics
Propafenone During Pregnancy
Propafenone pregnancy category
Category CNote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Propafenone while pregnant
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. RYTHMOL should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Taking Propafenone While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Propafenone?
Limited information indicates that maternal doses of propafenone up to 900 mg daily produce low levels in milk. If propafenone is required by the mother it is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding. Until more data become available, propafenone should be used with caution during breastfeeding, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Limited information indicates that maternal doses of propafenone up to 900 mg daily produce low levels in milk. If propafenone is required by the mother it is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding. Until more data become available, propafenone should be used with caution during breastfeeding, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.
Possible effects of Propafenone on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Propafenone
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Libardoni M, Piovan D, Busato E et al. Transfer of propafenone and 5-OH-propafenone to foetal plasma and maternal milk. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1991;32:527-8. PMID: 1958453
2. Wakaumi M, Tsuruoka S, Sakamoto K et al. Pilsicainide in breast milk from a mother: comparison with disopyramide and propafenone. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2005;59:120-2. PMID: 15606453
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
