GENERIC NAME: SOTALOL - ORAL (SO-tuh-lol)

BRAND NAME(S): Betapace

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

WARNING: Because this medication can cause irregular heartbeats, it should only be started while you are in a hospital where your condition can be closely monitored (e.g., EKG) for at least 3 days. Close monitoring of the EKG is also recommended if your dosage is being increased. Do not switch brands of this medication without checking with your doctor. If you have angina or have had heart problems, do not suddenly stop using this medication without first consulting your doctor. If your doctor decides you should no longer use this medication, you must stop this medication gradually according to your doctor's instructions.

USES: This medication is a beta-blocking agent used to treat serious heart rhythm disturbances (arrhythmias).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth on an empty stomach as prescribed. Be sure to follow instructions closely. Do not increase your dose, skip any doses or take this more often than directed. If you use antacids (e.g., aluminum, magnesium, calcium- containing products), do not take them at the same time as sotalol. Take the antacid 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking sotalol. Do not stop taking this drug suddenly without your doctors approval. In some cases, your condition may become worse if the medication is abruptly discontinued.

SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, stomach upset, or blurred vision may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. Other common side effects reported include cough, decreased sexual desire, trouble sleeping, reduced concentration, altered taste, dry skin, or muscle aches. If any of these effects continue or worsen, notify your doctor immediately. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, skin rash, sore throat, breathing trouble, mental confusion, trouble urinating, easy bruising or bleeding. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: fainting, irregular heartbeat. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also limit your intake of alcoholic beverages which will aggravate these effects. Use caution performing tasks requiring alertness if this medication causes you to feel drowsy or dizzy. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.