Common Use

Betapace contains sotalol hydrochloride, an antiarrhythmic drug with properties of classes II (beta-adrenoreceptor blocking) and III (cardiac action potential duration prolongation). Betapace is used to treat various forms of supraventricular arrhythmias. It is particularly effective in treating atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter. It is also used for supraventricular tachycardia, including Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, paroxysmal atrial flutter, and ventricular tachycardia.

Dosage and Direction

The recommended starting dose is 0.04-0.08 g, taken 2-3 times daily. If needed, the dose may be increased to up to 0.16 g, taken 2-3 times daily. Take the medication orally with a full glass of water before a meal. Do not chew the medication.

Precautions

• Use cautiously in patients with a recent myocardial infarction.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Consult your doctor if you have a history of bronchitis, emphysema, heart disease, congestive heart failure, diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid disorder, or a recent heart attack.

Contraindications

• Chronic heart failure.
• Cardiogenic shock.
• Atrioventricular block.
• Arterial hypotension.
• Sick sinus syndrome.
• Bradycardia.
• Elongated QT interval.
• Hypokalemia.
• Obliterative artery diseases.
• Obstructive pulmonary disease.
• Metabolic acidosis.
• Hypersensitivity to the drug's components.

Caution is necessary when prescribing sotalol to patients with a recent myocardial infarction.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects include:

• Sinus bradycardia (reported in 9-11% of patients).
• Heart failure symptoms.
• Lightheadedness, headache, drowsiness, dizziness.
• Stomach upset, blurred vision.
• Cough, trouble sleeping.
• Reduced concentration, dry skin, decreased sexual desire, altered taste, or muscle aches.

Notify your doctor immediately if you experience mental confusion, trouble urinating, easy bruising or bleeding, chest pain, skin rash, sore throat, breathing trouble, fainting, or irregular heartbeat.

Drug Interaction

Inform your doctor about all medications and herbal products you are taking, including:

• Blood pressure medications (e.g., clonidine).
• Antacids, St John's wort.
• Anti-diabetic drugs.
• Calcium channel blockers (e.g., verapamil, diltiazem).
• Arbutamine, aspirin/NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen).
• Diuretics (e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide).
• Quinidine, procainamide, sparfloxacin, dofetilide, pimozide.

Avoid taking allergy or cold medications without your doctor's permission.

Missed Dose

Do not take a double dose. If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include chest pain, swelling, hunger, slow or fast heartbeats, shortness of breath, weakness, confusion, seizure, sweating, light-headedness, or fainting.

Storage

Store Betapace at room temperature, between 15-30°C (59-86°F).

Disclaimer

This information provides general details about the medication and does not cover all directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions. We are not responsible for any errors or damages resulting from the use of this information or from self-treatment.