Drug interactions
Encainide + Propafenone
Severity: Major
Encainide and Propafenone: major interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Encainide is a class 1C antiarrhythmic metabolized by CYP2D6, which propafenone inhibits. Combined use would add class 1C proarrhythmic effects and increase parent encainide exposure; encainide is largely withdrawn.
What this interaction means in plain words
Encainide and Propafenone can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
Propafenone inhibition of CYP2D6 plus additive sodium-channel blocking effects.
What to do
Avoid combining two class 1C antiarrhythmics. If encainide is still in use, monitor ECG closely.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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Other interactions of Propafenone
- Dofetilide + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Nilotinib + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Nirmatrelvir / ritonavir + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Nirmatrelvir + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Pimozide + Propafenone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Encainide with Propafenone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Encainide and Propafenone can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Encainide is a class 1C antiarrhythmic metabolized by CYP2D6, which propafenone inhibits. Combined use would add class 1C proarrhythmic effects and increase parent encainide exposure; encainide is largely withdrawn.
How serious is the interaction between Encainide and Propafenone?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid combining two class 1C antiarrhythmics. If encainide is still in use, monitor ECG closely.
What other medicines interact with Propafenone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Propafenone with, for example, Dofetilide, Dronedarone, Nilotinib. The full list is on the Propafenone page.
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