Betapace (Sotalol)

What is/are Betapace Tablets?

SOTALOL is a beta-blocker. Beta-blockers reduce the workload on the heart and help it to beat more regularly. This medicine is used to treat heart rhythm problems and to slow rapid heartbeats. This medicine can help your heart to return to and maintain a normal rhythm. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• diabetes
• heart or vessel disease like slow heart rate, worsening heart failure, heart block, sick sinus syndrome or Raynaud's disease
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• history of low levels of potassium or magnesium
• lung or breathing disease, like asthma or emphysema
• pheochromocytoma
• recent heart attack
• thyroid disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to sotalol, other beta-blockers, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly. This could lead to serious heart-related effects.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. While this medicine may be used in children for selected conditions precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

• amoxapine
• arsenic trioxide
• certain antibiotics like gatifloxacin, grepafloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, sparfloxacin, telithromycin
• cisapride
• droperidol
• haloperidol
• hawthorn
• levomethadyl
• maprotiline
• medicines for malaria like chloroquine and halofantrine
• medicines to control heart rhythm
• methadone
• other beta-blockers like atenolol, metoprolol, propranolol and others
• pentamidine
• phenothiazines like prochlorperazine, perphenazine, thioridazine, and others
• pimozide
• ranolazine
• tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline, imipramine, nortriptyline, and others
• vardenafil
• ziprasidone

This medicine may also interact with the following:

• antacids
• certain antibiotics such as clarithromycin and erythromycin
• clonidine
• digoxin
• medicines for angina or high blood pressure
• medicines for colds and breathing difficulties
• medicines for diabetes

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• chest pain
• cold, tingling, or numb hands or feet
• confusion
• diarrhea
• difficulty breathing, wheezing
• irregular heartbeat
• muscle aches and pains
• skin rash
• slow heart rate
• sweating
• swollen legs or ankles
• tremor, shakes
• vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• change in sex drive or performance
• mental depression
• nausea
• weakness or tiredness

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Check your heart rate and blood pressure regularly while you are taking this medicine. Ask your doctor or health care professional what your heart rate and blood pressure should be, and when you should contact him or her. Your doctor or health care professional also may schedule regular blood tests and electrocardiograms to check your progress.

Because your condition and the use of this medicine carry some risk, it is a good idea to carry an identification card, necklace or bracelet with details of your condition, medications, and doctor or health care professional.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are taking this medicine without asking your doctor or health care professional for advice. Some ingredients may increase your blood pressure.

If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor or health care professional that you are taking this medicine.

Where should I keep this medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.