You can now add Healthify as a preferred source on Google. Click here to see us when you search Google.

Sotalol

Sounds like 'so-ta-lol'

Key points about sotalol

Sotalol is used to treat or prevent irregular heart rhythms (also called arrhythmia).
Find out how to take it safely and possible side effects.

Sotalol is used to treat and prevent irregular heart rhythms (also called an arrhythmia). An irregularity in your heart rhythm can cause your heart to skip a beat, beat unevenly or beat very fast. Arrhythmias can put you at risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Sotalol works by correcting irregular heart rhythms to a normal rhythm and slowing down a fast or overactive heart rate. It does this by targeting areas of the heart that transmit the electrical signals that maintain a regular heartbeat. Sotalol lowers your heart rate and reduces how often and how long irregular heartbeats occur.

In Aotearoa New Zealand, sotalol comes as tablets.

In Aotearoa New Zealand, sotalol comes as tablets (80 mg and 160 mg).

Your healthcare provider will prescribe the right dose of sotalol for you. The dose may need to be adjusted as your symptoms become controlled.

Always take sotalol exactly as your healthcare provider has told you. The pharmacy label on your medicine will tell you how much to take, how often to take it, and any special instructions.
The dose of sotalol will be different for different people.
You will usually be started on a low dose which will be increased slowly over a few days.

Timing: You'll usually take sotalol twice a day. Take each dose at the same time each day with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food. Choose one way and take it the same way every time.
Take them whole: Swallow the tablets whole with plenty of water. Don't chew or crush the tablet.
Missed dose: If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is nearly time for your next dose, just take the next dose at the right time. Don't take double the dose.
Keep taking sotalol every day: Don’t stop taking it suddenly – this can make your condition worse.

Here are some things to know when you're taking sotalol. Other things may be important as well, so ask your healthcare provider what you should know about.

Blood tests and monitoring

Before you start sotalol, you will have a heart test called an ECG. This will usually be repeated about a week after starting the medicine or if the dose is changed, so your healthcare provider can check how your heart is responding to the treatment.

You may need blood tests to check how well your kidneys are working. Your blood test may also check potassium and magnesium levels, as low amounts can cause side effects.

If you’re driving, cycling or using machinery

Sotalol can make you feel dizzy or light-headed, especially when you first start taking it. Be careful when driving, cycling or using tools until you know how this medicine affects you.

Taking other medicines

Sotalol can interact with some medicines, herbal supplements and rongoā Māori, so check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting sotalol and before starting any new medicines or products.

Are you pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding?

It's important to talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible if you're trying to get pregnant, are pregnant (hapū) or breastfeeding.

Like all medicines sotalol can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. If you're concerned about any symptoms talk to your healthcare provider. The following information offers some guidance but doesn't include all possible side effects.

Common side effects

Tell your healthcare provider if these side effects bother you.

Dizziness, tiredness: Don't drive, cycle or use tools or machines until you know how this medicine affects you. To avoid feeling dizzy, get up slowly when standing from sitting or lying down.
Nausea (feeling sick), diarrhoea (runny poo).
Cold hands or feet.
Headache.
Sleep problems, nightmares.
Weakness or tiredness (fatigue).