A case of flecainide-induced hyponatremia

J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol. 2009 Oct;20(10):1170-2. doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8167.2009.01450.x. Epub 2009 Feb 26.

Abstract

We present a case of flecainide-induced hyponatremia in a 67-year-old woman who was treated for paroxysmal atrial tachycardia. She developed dizziness after starting flecainide and was found to be hyponatremic with a sodium level of 122 mmol/L (decreased from 136 mmol/L). Work-up failed to reveal other causes of hyponatremia. She was not on diuretics, laxatives, or herbal medications. After discontinuation of flecainide, her symptoms and sodium levels improved. Hyponatremia is a previously unrecognized entity as an adverse effect of flecainide. We will discuss the clinical presentation, lab findings, and a possible explanation for this patient's unusual reaction to flecainide.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / adverse effects
  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / therapeutic use
  • Atrial Fibrillation / complications*
  • Atrial Fibrillation / drug therapy*
  • Female
  • Flecainide / adverse effects*
  • Flecainide / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Hyponatremia / chemically induced*
  • Hyponatremia / diagnosis
  • Hyponatremia / prevention & control*

Substances

  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents
  • Flecainide