Dofetilide Capsules

What is this medication?

DOFETILIDE (doe FET il ide) treats a fast or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). It works by slowing down overactive electric signals in the heart, which stabilizes your heart rhythm. It belongs to a group of medications called antiarrhythmics.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Tikosyn

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What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Heart disease
  • History of irregular heartbeat
  • History of low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood
  • Kidney disease
  • Liver disease
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to dofetilide, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

Take this medication by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not take with grapefruit juice. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Take your medication at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your care team's advice.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, skip it. Take your next dose at the normal time. Do not take extra or 2 doses at the same time to make up for the missed dose.

What may interact with this medication?

Do not take this medication with any of the following:

  • Cimetidine
  • Cisapride
  • Dolutegravir
  • Dronedarone
  • Erdafitinib
  • Hydrochlorothiazide
  • Ketoconazole
  • Megestrol
  • Pimozide
  • Prochlorperazine
  • Thioridazine
  • Trimethoprim
  • Verapamil

This medication may also interact with the following:

  • Amiloride
  • Cannabinoids
  • Certain antibiotics like erythromycin or clarithromycin
  • Certain antiviral medications for HIV or hepatitis
  • Certain medications for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disorders
  • Digoxin
  • Diltiazem
  • Grapefruit juice
  • Metformin
  • Nefazodone
  • Other medications that prolong the QT interval (an abnormal heart rhythm)
  • Quinine
  • Triamterene
  • Zafirlukast
  • Ziprasidone

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Chest pain
  • Heart rhythm changes—fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, chest pain, trouble breathing

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Trouble sleeping

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Copyright ©2024 Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Terms of use.

Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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