Structure
Procainamide hydrochloride is a class IA antiarrhythmic agent structurally related to the local anesthetic procainamide.
It contains an amide linkage with a diethylamino group and a phenyl ring.
Chemical Formula: C₁₉H₃₀N₄O₂S·HCl (C15H30N4O2S·HCl)
Mode of Action
Class IA Antiarrhythmic: Blocks fast sodium channels, prolongs the action potential and refractory period.
Potassium Channel Blockade: Extends repolarization by inhibiting potassium efflux.
Ventricular and Atrial Myocytes: Slows phase 0 of the cardiac action potential, reducing excitability.
Effect on Heart Rate: Converts atrial fibrillation to sinus rhythm and prevents reentrant arrhythmias.
Uses of Procainamide Hydrochloride
Ventricular Arrhythmias: Treats ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation.
Atrial Arrhythmias: Manages atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter.
Reentrant Arrhythmias Prevention: Effective in preventing recurrence post-cardiac events.
Antiarrhythmic Prophylaxis: Used after myocardial infarction to prevent arrhythmias.