What is sotalol (Betapace)?
Betapace is the brand name for the medication sotalol. Sotalol is used to treat patients with abnormal heartbeats (arrhythmias). It acts on your heart muscle to improve the heart’s rhythm.
How do I take sotalol?
You will get your first 6 doses of sotalol in the hospital so your healthcare team can see how you respond to the medication. Your doctor will tell you how much you need to take after you leave the hospital. This information will also be on your prescription label. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about how or when to take this or any of your medications.
Sotalol comes in tablets and is usually taken twice a day, every 12 hours. Do not skip a dose or take a different amount than your doctor prescribes. Even if you feel well, NEVER stop taking this medication without asking your doctor. If you suddenly stop taking sotalol, your condition may get worse.
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
What special instructions should I follow while using this drug?
- Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medications, vitamins, herbal and dietary supplements you take.
- Keep all follow-up appointments with your doctor and the lab so they know how well the drug is working.
- Sotalol can cause drowsiness. Do not drive a car or operate dangerous machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
- Always have enough of this medication on hand. Check your supply before vacations, holidays and other times when you may run out and be unable to get a refill.
- Do not take this medication if you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant or are breastfeeding.
- Alcoholic beverages can make side effects of sotalol worse. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice on drinking alcoholic beverages.
- Tell your doctor and dentist that you take sotalol before you have any surgical or dental procedure or emergency
- If you have diabetes, continue following your nutrition guidelines and take all medications as prescribed.
What should I do if I forget to take a dose?
If you miss more than one dose, contact your doctor.
What are the side effects of this medication?
If you have any of the following symptoms, stop taking sotalol and call your doctor right away:
- Chest pain, fast pulse or more irregular heartbeats.
- Rash.
- Trouble breathing.
- Confusion.
- Trouble urinating.
Call your doctor if the following side effects are persistent or severe:
- Feeling dizzy, drowsy or light-headed. Get up slowly after sitting or lying down. Make sure you know how you react to the medication before you take part in activities that require you to be alert.
- Headache.
- Decreased sexual desire.
- Trouble sleeping, reduced concentration or changes in mood.
If you have diabetes: This medicine may cover up signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
How should I store this medication?
- Keep sotalol in the container it came in.
- Store tablets at room temperature.
- Store sotalol away from heat, moisture and direct sunlight. Do not store this medication in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places.
- Never share your medication with anyone.
- Never take outdated medications. Some medication prescription labels list an expiration date. If such a date is not on your medication label, or if you are unsure how old a medication is, call your pharmacy.
Please talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medication.
