0

Home > Drug Category > Sustained Ventricular Tachycardia Medication > Betapace and Equivalent

Betapace Information

Betapace (Sotalol) is primarily used to treat and prevent certain types of fast or irregular heartbeats, which are called arrhythmias. It is used to treat life-threatening ventricular tachycardia, a rhythm problem originating in the lower chambers of the heart. It is also used to help maintain a regular heart rhythm in patients with highly symptomatic atrial fibrillation or flutter who are currently in normal sinus rhythm. These abnormal heart conditions involve disordered electrical activity that makes the heart beat too fast or irregularly, preventing it from pumping blood effectively. The result can be a dangerous drop in blood pressure and a failure to circulate enough oxygen to the brain and body. This often means the heart is unable to sustain life effectively.

Sotalol is a potent antiarrhythmic drug that works in two different ways. Firstly, it acts as a class III antiarrhythmic by blocking potassium channels in the heart muscle, slowing the electrical recovery phase of the heart. This stabilization helps prevent irregular beats from recurring. Secondly, it acts as a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor blocker. This effect slows the overall heart rate and reduces the conduction of electrical signals, thereby contributing to a more stable, normal heart rhythm. Once the rhythm has been corrected, Sotalol helps prevent or delay the irregular rhythm from returning.

It is worth noting that the Class III antiarrhythmic effect of sotalol can significantly increase the risk of a severe, life-threatening arrhythmia called Torsade de Pointes (a type of ventricular tachycardia). Hence why this medication is not used in mild atrial fibrillation that conservative methods can manage; it is only used in severe cases where the patient is symptomatic.

Betapace Side Effects

Like many other medications, sotalol has a spectrum of possible side effects, ranging from widespread and manageable effects to more serious reactions that require immediate medical attention.

Common mild side effects of this medication include tiredness, slow heartbeat, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, nausea, cold hands and feet, and reduced libido. To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen.

As earlier highlighted, this medication can potentially cause life-threatening ventricular tachycardia, mainly when used without a medical professional's monitoring. Therefore, stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Arrhythmic symptoms such as fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, or fainting;
• Difficulty in breathing and wheezing;
• Severe dizziness and lightheadedness;
• Vision changes or problems

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Betapace Precautions

Avoid using this medication if you are allergic to sotalol, other ingredients in Betapace, or any other medicine. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Adrenal gland problems;
• Breathing problems such as asthma;
• Diabetes;
• Electrolyte imbalances such as low potassium;
• Heart disease, such as coronary artery disease, heart failure;
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease;
• Low blood pressure or poor circulation;
• Myasthenia gravis;
• Raynaud's syndrome;
• Thyroid disorders

Initiation of this medication is best performed in a hospital under continuous cardiac monitoring. Your doctor will monitor your heart rhythm regularly while you are taking this medication using an electrocardiogram. Your doctor will also perform some blood tests before you start using this medication. Regular blood tests may also be required during your treatment with Betapace. You should never suddenly stop taking sotalol, especially if you have coronary artery disease. Stopping abruptly can lead to a rebound effect, potentially causing chest pain, a heart attack, or dangerous increases in blood pressure or heart rate. The dosage must be tapered down slowly under your doctor's guidance.

Your doctors will need to be aware that you are taking this medication if you are scheduled for surgery, as sotalol can interfere with how some medications that are used in surgery work. Please consult your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy to ensure its benefits outweigh the risks. It is generally recommended not to breastfeed while taking sotalol, as it can pass through the breast milk. Taking sotalol with some other medications, such as certain antibiotics, antifungal drugs, or other antiarrhythmics like amiodarone or quinidine, can potentiate the risk of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia. Also, some antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium can reduce the body's absorption of Sotalol. Therefore, before taking this medication, inform your doctor about any other medications you are currently taking, including herbal medicines, to determine if it is safe to use along with sotalol.

You can take Betapace/sotalol tablets with or without food, but try to take your doses at the same time each day to help you remember to take them regularly. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose of this medication for you depending on your condition and response to treatment. Avoid taking antacids within 2 hours of taking this medication. Do not use more than the prescribed dose of this medication. Store Betapace tablets at room temperature and keep away from children and pets.

Do I need a prescription to order Betapace?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Betapace.