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procainamide

(Science: chemical) A derivative of procaine with less cNS action. It is used in cardiac arrhythmias.

It differs chemically from procaine by containing the amide group (CONH) instead of the ester group (COO). It depresses the irritability of the cardiac muscle, having a quinidine-like action upon the heart, and is used in ventricular arrhythmias.

Pharmacological action: anti-arrhythmia agents, platelet aggregation inhibitors. Suppresses ventricular ectopy by slowing phase 4 diastolic depolarisation, reducing automaticity. Slows conduction and may prevent reentrant rhythms.

uses: treat premature ventricular contractions and ventricular tachycardia. May convert supraventricular arrhythmias.

dose: iV loading: 20-30 mg/min until toxicity or desired effect up to 17 mg/kg maintenance: 1-4 mg/min infusion reduce dosage if heart or renal failure.

potential complications: qRS widening and pR prolongation on the eCG. AV block or asystole may follow. Rapid administration causes hypotension from vasodilation.

chemical name: 4-amino-N-(2-(diethylamino)ethyl)-benzamide

(12 M 350 ar 2000)