MedDataToolSotylize is a medication used to treat serious heart rhythm problems, specifically life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias and to help maintain a normal heart rhythm in patients with severe atrial fibrillation or flutter. It works by slowing down the heart rate and prolonging the time it takes for the heart's electrical signals to reset, which helps stabilize the heart's rhythm. You will typically start with a dose of 80 mg taken twice a day, and this can be increased to a maximum of 320 mg daily, depending on how you respond to the treatment. It's important to know that this medication should not be used if you have a baseline heart rhythm issue known as a long QT interval. Additionally, taking antacids within two hours of Sotylize can reduce its effectiveness, so it's best to space them out.
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Uses
- Life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.
- Highly symptomatic atrial fibrillation/flutter.
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Dosage
Start with 80 mg twice daily.
Increase by 80 mg every 3 days as needed.
Maximum dose is 320 mg daily.
For kidney issues, adjust dose based on creatinine clearance.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
FatigueBradycardia (heart rate less than 50 bpm)Dyspnea (difficulty breathing)DizzinessProarrhythmia (new or worsening arrhythmias)
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Can cause life-threatening arrhythmias.
- Monitor QT interval closely; reduce dose if QT is 500 msec or greater.
- Do not use in patients with easily reversible AFIB/AFL.
- Avoid use with other drugs that prolong QT interval.
- Initiate therapy in a facility with cardiac monitoring.
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Drug interactions
- Class I or III antiarrhythmicsavoid use togetherAvoid
- Digoxinincreased risk of bradycardia and heart failureMonitor
- Calcium channel blockersincreased risk of bradycardiaMonitor
- Antacidsreduce sotalol exposure if taken within 2 hours.Caution
Ask about this drug
Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).