Indications
Betapace AF is a prescription medication used to treat atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter, which are types of supraventricular arrhythmias. It can be used to treat certain fast/irregular heartbeats in patients with severe symptoms such as weakness and shortness of breath.
The active ingredient in Betapace AF is sotalol, which is a beta-blocker. Sotalol works by slowing down overactive electric signals in the heart, which can help to reduce irregular heartbeats. In addition to treating arrhythmia, sotalol may also help to relax blood vessels.
Use and Dosage
Sotalol AF is available in tablet form and should be taken orally as per your doctor's instructions, usually 1 to 3 times a day. Whether you take it with or without food is up to you, stick with one method and take your doses in the same way every time.
The dosage of Sotalol AF depends on your medical condition and response to treatment. If you are giving it to a child, the dosage will also be based on their age and body size. For the best results, make sure that you are taking Sotalol AF tablets regularly. Set yourself a reminder to take it at the same time(s) every day.
If you are taking antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium, make sure that you do not take them at the same time as Sotalol AF. The antacids can bind to the medication and reduce its effectiveness. To avoid this interaction, leave at least 2 hours between taking antacids and taking Sotalol AF.
Sotalol controls your condition but does not cure it. Continue to take sotalol even if you feel well. Do not stop taking sotalol without talking to your doctor. If sotalol is stopped suddenly, it may cause chest pain or heart attack. Do not take more or less of the medication unless you have been directed to do so. Running out of pills can be risky, so order your refills in advance to ensure you have enough medication.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Betapace AF (Sotalol AF):
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Excessive tiredness
- Headache
- Lightheadedness
- Muscle aches
- Upset stomach
Serious Side Effects of Betapace AF (Sotalol AF):
- Chest pain
- Cold symptoms such as
- Stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Decreased sexual ability
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Joint or muscle pain
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Slow heartbeat
- Stomach pain
- Swelling of the feet and lower legs
- Tiredness
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Forms and Strength
Betapace AF (Sotalol AF) is available in the following forms and strength:
Betapace AF: Tablet
- 120mg
Cautions
- Betapace AF should only be prescribed by a physician experienced in the use of antiarrhythmic agents.
- Betapace AF should not be used if the patient has a known history of bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other conditions that cause airway obstruction.
- Betapace AF should not be used in patients with a baseline QT interval prolongation longer than 450 msec (500 msec in patients with ventricular conduction abnormalities).
- Betapace AF should be used with caution in patients with impaired renal function, as sotalol is excreted through the kidneys. Additionally, the dose may need to be adjusted based on the patient's renal function.
- Betapace AF should be used with caution in patients with electrolyte imbalances or on medications that can potentially cause electrolyte imbalances, as electrolyte imbalances can increase the risk of arrhythmias.
- Betapace AF should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
- Betapace AF can cause dizziness, fatigue, and other side effects that can impair the patient's ability to drive or operate machinery.
- Betapace AF should be used with caution in patients with a history of heart failure, as it can worsen heart failure symptoms.
- Betapace AF can interact with other medications, inform the doctor of all medications being taken to avoid potential interactions.
- Betapace AF can cause a type of arrhythmia known as Torsades de Pointes, which can be life-threatening. Patients taking Betapace AF should be monitored closely for signs of this arrhythmia.
- Betapace AF should be discontinued gradually rather than abruptly, as sudden discontinuation can lead to rebound arrhythmias.
- Betapace AF should not be used in patients with significant bradycardia (slow heart rate).
- Betapace AF may cause hypotension (low blood pressure), especially upon standing, so patients should be advised to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to avoid dizziness and falls.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Betapace AF cause breathing problems?
Betapace AF should not be used if the patient has a known history of bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other conditions that cause airway obstruction. However, some patients may experience shortness of breath as a side effect of Betapace AF.
Can Betapace AF cause low blood pressure?
Yes, Betapace AF can cause hypotension (low blood pressure), especially upon standing. Patients should be advised to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to avoid dizziness and falls.
Is Betapace AF safe during pregnancy?
No, Betapace AF should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Can Betapace AF cause liver problems?
Rarely, Betapace AF can cause liver problems. Patients should be monitored closely for signs of liver problems such as jaundice, abdominal pain, and dark urine.
Can Betapace AF be used in patients with kidney problems?
Betapace AF should be used with caution in patients with impaired renal function, as sotalol is excreted through the kidneys. The dose may need to be adjusted based on the patient's renal function.
Resources
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/021151s010lbl.pdf
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a693010.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-18047/betapace-af-oral/details
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=afce2787-8899-4098-87c8-f1e8dd19e6dd
- https://www.rxlist.com/betapace-af-drug.htm
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