Indications 

Betapace AF is a prescribed medication used to help people with symptomatic atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter (AFIB/AFL) who are currently in normal sinus rhythm maintain their heart’s regular beating pattern. 

As a member of the beta blocker and antiarrhythmic drug class, Betapace AF functions by affecting the heart muscle to reduce the heart rate and promote a more consistent and regular heartbeat. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Betapace AF and with every prescription refill, carefully review the accompanying medication guide and patient information leaflet. If you have any queries or concerns, consult your doctor or pharmacist. 

The appropriate dosage of Betapace AF is determined based on the patient’s medical condition and treatment response. In pediatric patients, age and body size are additional factors considered when determining the dosage. 

Typically, Betapace AF is taken 2 to 3 times daily as prescribed by the doctor. It may be taken with or without food, but it must always be taken consistently in the same manner you chose for every dose. 

To maximize the efficacy of this medication, take it consistently at the same times each day. 

Take Betapace AF exactly as directed to minimize the potential for side effects, such as a serious abnormal heartbeat. Altering the dosage or skipping doses should only be done under the guidance of your physician, as improper use may lead to the resurgence of a fast, irregular heartbeat. 

Continue taking Betapace AF even if you are symptom-free. When discontinuing Betapace AF, your doctor will provide guidance on a gradual dose reduction plan spanning 1 to 2 weeks. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Betapace AF. Tell your doctor promptly should any of these symptoms last or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Fatigue 
• Slow heartbeat 
• Dizziness 

Serious Side Effects 

• Signs of worsening heart failure, including: 
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Swelling in the ankles/feet 
  • Unusual fatigue 
  • Sudden or abnormal weight gain 

Inform your doctor at once if you exhibit any of the side effects listed above. 

Seek immediate medical assistance for severe side effects, such as: 

• Profound dizziness 
• Fainting 
• Rapid, irregular, or unusually slow heartbeat 
• Chest, jaw, or left arm pain 

Allergic Reactions 

In rare cases, Betapace AF may trigger a severe allergic response. Seek prompt medical assistance if any indications of an allergic response arise, such as: 

• Rash 
• Itching/swelling (face/tongue/throat) 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing. 

This list does not cover all side effects of Betapace AF. Inform your doctor if other side effects occur while taking this medication. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Betapace AF, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to sotalol. 

Consult your pharmacist for additional information about Betapace AF, as it may contain inactive components that may trigger allergic reactions or other issues.  

To ensure Betapace AF is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Specific heart rhythm issues (slow heartbeat, sick sinus syndrome, second- or third-degree atrioventricular block unless a pacemaker is present) 
• Kidney problems 
• Heart conditions (e.g., heart failure, recent heart attack) 
• Respiratory diseases (e.g., asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema) 
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) 
• Severe allergic reactions requiring epinephrine treatment 

Fingolimod may interact with Betapace AF. To mitigate the risk of such interactions, inform your healthcare providers about all your medications, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. 

Be cautious of products with ingredients that may increase heart rate. Inform your pharmacist about your current product usage and seek guidance on their safe usage, particularly with cough-and-cold remedies, dietary supplements, or NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen. 

If you are taking antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium, avoid taking them simultaneously with Betapace AF, as they may bind to sotalol and diminish its absorption and efficacy. Space out the doses of these antacids and Betapace AF by a minimum of 2 hours to mitigate this interaction. 

Before any medical or laboratory tests, ensure you notify laboratory staff and your healthcare providers about your Betapace AF usage, as it can potentially disrupt specific medical and laboratory tests, potentially leading to inaccurate test outcomes. 

Betapace AF has the potential to induce drowsiness. Refrain from driving or operating machinery until you have gauged its impact on your alertness. 

Betapace AF can potentially induce a cardiac rhythm disorder known as QT prolongation on the EKG. This rare occurrence may lead to a serious, potentially fatal, rapid, and irregular heartbeat and other urgent symptoms like severe dizziness and fainting that necessitate immediate medical intervention. 

Betapace AF may affect blood sugar control in diabetes patients. Regularly monitor levels and inform your doctor of any symptoms. Adjustments to medication, exercise, or diet may be necessary. 

Inform your healthcare provider about your pregnancy status or future intentions, and refrain from taking Betapace AF while pregnant unless your healthcare provider deems it necessary. 

Notify your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or intend to, as sotalol can transfer into breast milk. Breastfeeding should be avoided while taking this medication.