Indications
Betapace generically known as sotalol hydrochloride is a medication used to treat certain types of heart rhythm problems or arrhythmias, such as sustained ventricular tachycardia or atrial fibrillation.
Betapace is an antiarrhythmic drug that belongs to a class of drugs known as beta-blockers and potassium channel blockers. It works by slowing down abnormal electrical activity in the heart, which helps to restore normal heart rhythm. It may be used alone or in combination with other medications and is available in tablet form as Betapace and Sotalol.
Uses and Dosage
Betapace comes as tablet to take by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 1 to 3 to times a day. You may take it with or without food but choose one way and take it the same way with each dose.
To properly administer sotalol (Betapace), the typical dosing for adults is an initial 80 mg by mouth once or twice daily, which can be adjusted by your healthcare provider as needed. For ventricular arrhythmias, the usual daily dose is 160 to 320 mg split into 2 or 3 divided doses, with higher doses required for severe cases. For the prevention of atrial fibrillation or flutter, most adults commonly require 120 mg taken twice daily.
In children, the starting dose is calculated based on their body surface area, with a recommended chart for those under 2 years old, and the healthcare provider will modify the dose, as necessary. The medication is orally administered 2 to 3 times per day.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Betapace (Sotalol):
- Dizziness
- Slow heart beats
- Tiredness
- Trouble breathing
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Betapace (Sotalol):
- Chest pain
- Fast or pounding heartbeats
- Fluttering in your chest
- Lightheadedness
- Rapid weight gain
- Shortness of breath
- Slow heartbeats
- Sudden dizziness
- Swelling
Form and Strength
Betapace (Sotalol) is available in the following forms and strength:
Betapace: Tablet
- 80 mg
- 160 mg
Sotalol: Tablet
- 80 mg
- 120 mg
- 160 mg
- 240 mg
Caution
- Betapace should not be taken by patients with certain heart conditions, such as long QT syndrome or uncontrolled heart failure.
- Betapace should be used with caution in patients with a history of asthma, bronchospastic disease, or other respiratory conditions.
- Betapace can cause dizziness or fainting, especially when standing up quickly. Patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
- Betapace can interact with other medications, including other anti-arrhythmic medications, blood pressure medications, and certain antibiotics. Patients should talk to their healthcare provider about all medications they are taking before starting Betapace.
- Betapace can cause changes in the electrical activity of the heart, which may lead to a dangerous irregular heartbeat. Patients should be closely monitored by their healthcare provider while taking Betapace.
- Betapace can interact with certain foods and drinks, including grapefruit juice, alcohol, and caffeine. Patients should talk to their healthcare provider about any dietary restrictions while taking Betapace.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How should I take Betapace?
Betapace should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It is usually taken twice a day with or without food. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your dose based on your response to the medication.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Betapace?
If you miss a dose of Betapace, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Can I take Betapace if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Betapace may be harmful to a developing fetus, so it is typically not recommended during pregnancy. It is also not known if Betapace passes into breast milk, so it should be used with caution while breastfeeding.
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