Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Quinidine and flecainide are both prescription medications used to treat abnormal heart rhythms. They work by blocking sodium channels to help normalize your heart's electrical activity. Quinidine is available as generic quinidine sulfate and quinidine gluconate extended-release tablets. Flecainide is also available as a lower-cost generic. Quinidine is used for treating and preventing atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter as well as preventing ventricular arrhythmias, but it is not commonly used today because of better alternatives. Flecainide is used for preventing paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardias, paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter, and ventricular arrhythmias. Quinidine is typically taken every 6 to 12 hours, while flecainide is taken twice a day. Common side effects of quinidine include diarrhea and upset stomach, whereas flecainide can cause dizziness and changes in vision. Both medications many important drug interactions, so be sure to inform your prescriber and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking.
Quinidine
Flecainide
Quinidine
Flecainide
Summary of Cin-Quin vs. Tambocor
Summary for Antiarrhythmic
Prescription only
Quinidine is one of the oldest antiarrhythmic medications, but isn't used as often these days since there are better alternatives.
Summary for Antiarrhythmic
Prescription only
Flecainide is a prescription antiarrhythmic medication used to prevent abnormal heart rhythms, including paroxysmal atrial fibrillation/flutter (PAF), paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) and ventricular arrhythmias in adults and certain children. It comes as tablets that you take by mouth, typically two times a day, but your exact dose depends on your heart condition. Because it affects your heart rhythm, it requires regular heart monitoring. Common side effects include dizziness, vision changes, and shortness of breath.