Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is disopyramide. You may hear it called by the brand name, 'Norpace'. This medicine helps prevent and treat heart beat problems that are life-threatening, like 'sustained v-tach'. 

For the first few days, most patients stay in the hospital. Your doctor will find the right dose for you, and will follow you closely. 

Once you are home, you should take it exactly as your doctor tells you to. It is important to not miss doses. If you do, just take your NEXT dose at the usual time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

Common side effects include a dry mouth, eyes or nose. Others include constipation, and a slow start to urination. These effects are normal if they are mild. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Some patients feel a little dizzy or tired. Others notice changes to their eyesight, like blurry vision. Call your doctor if these happen to you. Also, wait until you know how this medicine affects you, before doing things that require you to be alert, like driving. 

As with any medicine, more serious effects can occur. Disopyramide can cause new or worse heart beat problems, heart failure, low blood pressure, or low blood sugar. You should always get medical help right away if your heart problems seem worse instead of better. Also, get help right away if you have any unusual changes to your body, like shortness of breath or sudden weight gain. 

You should always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines. 

For best results, plan ahead for refills, and follow your doctor's advice for steps you can take to manage your condition.