Propafenone hydrochloride, also known as SA-79 hydrochloride, is an anti-arrhythmic medication used to treat illnesses involving rapid heartbeats such as atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. It functions by slowing the influx of sodium ions into cardiac muscle cells, thereby decreasing their excitability. Propafenone is more selective for cells with a high rate and blocks normal cells more effectively than Class Ia or Ib antiarrhythmics. Unlike typical Class Ic antiarrhythmics, it also exhibits beta-adrenergic blocker activity, which can lead to bradycardia and bronchospasm.
- More selective for cells with a high rate
- Blocks normal cells more effectively than Class Ia or Ib antiarrhythmics
- Exhibits beta-adrenergic blocker activity