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Product Overview
Sotalol (generic Betapace)
What is sotalol? Sotalol (generic Betapace) is a prescription drug used to treat certain types of irregular heartbeats.
It may also be prescribed to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor. Talk to your doctor about whether sotalol is right for you.
What are common side effects of sotalol? While adverse reactions to sotalol are uncommon, some patients who take the drug may experience mild side effects, including headaches, cold hands or feet, nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, and weakness.
Rare, more serious adverse reactions have been known to occur. Contact your doctor if you are concerned that sotalol may be causing you to experience any number of these side effects.
This is not a complete list of side effects. If you are concerned about additional side effects, please contact your provider directly.
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Medically Reviewed By Dr. Allison Edwards, MD
Frequently asked questions about Sotalol
What is sotalol?
Sotalol is a prescription drug used to treat certain types of irregular heartbeats. It works by acting on the cardiac muscles to improve your heart’s rhythm. While most types of arrhythmia are not serious, some may increase your risk of developing complications such as stroke, heart failure, or even sudden death.
It may also be prescribed to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor. Talk to your doctor about whether sotalol is right for you.
What is sotalol used to treat?
Sotalol is used to treat potentially life-threatening heart rhythm disorders such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation. These are conditions in which your heart generally beats too fast or irregularly. They can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as weakness and shortness of breath and, in some cases, lead to serious (even fatal) complications such as stroke and heart failure.
How does sotalol work?
Sotalol adjusts the way your body responds to certain nerve impulses. This helps to slow down your heart rate (or reduce abnormal rhythms) and relax your blood vessels, making it easier for your heart to pump blood around your body.
What are the most common side effects of sotalol?
While adverse reactions to sotalol are rare, some patients who take the drug may experience mild side effects, including headaches, cold hands or feet, nausea, diarrhea, and feeling tired, dizzy, or weak. Tell your doctor if any of these are severe or last more than a few days.
Rare, more serious adverse events have been known to occur. Get immediate medical care if you experience chest pain; shortness of breath; swelling of the feet or lower legs; tingling, cramping, or numbness in your arms and legs; extreme thirst and sweating; or any signs of an allergic reaction.
This is not a complete list of side effects. For more information on adverse reactions you may experience while taking Sotalol, please visit the National Institutes of Health’s DailyMed webpage.
How long does it take for sotalol to work?
Sotalol starts working about 4 hours after it is administered. However, it can take 2 or 3 days before the maximal effect is reached.
What is the typical starting dose of sotalol?
The starting dose for most conditions is 80 mg taken once or twice daily. Your dosage may vary depending on the your age, condition, and preexisting health challenges.
Follow the instructions on that packaging label closely and use it only as directed. If you have any questions about how it should be taken, ask your doctor or pharmacist for clarification. Taking it more frequently or in higher doses than directed will not help you improve more quickly and can be dangerous.
Can I get sotalol over-the-counter?
Sotalol is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.
Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not sotalol is right for you.
Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.
Can I get sotalol online?
Yes! Talk to a provider on Sesame and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.
Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your clinician.
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