Betapace (Sotalol hydrochloride)

Do’s

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions: Take Betapace exactly as prescribed, typically 1 to 3 times daily.
• Choose to take it with or without food, but maintain consistency for every dose.
• If using liquid Betapace, use the provided measuring device for accurate dosing.
• Maintain a consistent schedule for optimal benefit.
• Avoid taking aluminum- or magnesium-containing antacids within 2 hours of Betapace, as they can reduce its effectiveness.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition doesn't improve or worsens.

Don'ts

• Don't alter the prescribed dosage or skip doses without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't take more than prescribed. Exceeding the prescribed dosage can increase side effects, including serious heart rhythm problems.
• Don't run out of medication. Refill your prescription a few days before running out to avoid interruption in treatment.

Common side effects of Betapace may include:

• Fatigue or weakness
• Dizziness
• Slow heartbeats (bradycardia)
• Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
• Abnormal physical weakness or lack of energy (asthenia)

Serious side effects of Betapace are rare but may include:

• Serious and potentially fatal ventricular arrhythmias, such as sustained ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation, primarily Torsade de Pointes (TdP)
• Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), dizziness, or trouble breathing
• Chest pain
• Fainting
• Difficulty breathing
• Cough or wheezing
• Swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• Dry mouth
• Skin or eyes
• Diarrhea
• Constipation

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Betapace,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies to sotalol or other medications before starting it.

Tell your healthcare provider about any pre-existing conditions, especially:

• Certain heart rhythm problems (slow heartbeat, sick sinus syndrome, heart block unless you have a pacemaker)
• Kidney problems
• Heart problems (heart failure, recent heart attack)
• Breathing problems (asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema)
• Overactive thyroid disease (hyperthyroidism)
• Serious allergic reactions needing epinephrine treatment

Betapace may cause a potentially serious heart rhythm problem (QT prolongation). This risk increases with certain medical conditions or medications. Discuss this with your healthcare provider and tell them about:

• Specific heart problems (existing QT prolongation, history of torsade de pointes)
• Family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation, sudden cardiac death)
• Low blood potassium or magnesium levels

Betapace may cause dizziness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you feel normal. Limit alcohol and marijuana use which can worsen dizziness.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take (including Betapace) before undergoing surgery.

Betapace may affect how you experience low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

• Symptoms like dizziness and sweating might be masked.
• It might be harder to control blood sugar levels (especially for diabetics).
• Regularly monitor blood sugar and discuss any changes with your healthcare provider.
• Children are at higher risk, ensure they eat regularly and report any concerning symptoms.

Be aware of the increased risk for side effects like dizziness, tiredness, and QT prolongation.

Betapace should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary due to potential harm to the unborn baby. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Betapace passes into breast milk and may affect the nursing infant. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.