Indications 

Betapace is a prescribed medication for treating sustained ventricular tachycardia, a serious and potentially life-threatening fast heartbeat. 

This medication is also indicated for treating certain fast or irregular heartbeats, such as atrial fibrillation/flutter, in patients experiencing severe symptoms like weakness and shortness of breath. 

Betapace is a Class II antiarrhythmic drug with Class III properties that slow down electrical signals in the heart, helping it to beat more steadily and lower heart rate. This makes it easier for the heart to relax, fill with blood, and pump blood around the body. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Betapace and with each prescription refill, thoroughly review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Ask your physician or pharmacist if you have any questions or clarifications. 

Betapace dosage is individualized and may depend on the patient’s medical condition and response to treatment. For children, the dosage is also determined by their age and body size. 

Typically, Betapace is taken twice daily as directed by a doctor and can be taken with or without food. However, it is important to consistently take it the same way with each dose. 

For the best results, take this medication regularly, around the same time(s) daily. 

To avoid side effects, do not exceed the prescribed dosage of Betapace, as it may cause a new abnormal heartbeat. Do not skip doses or take less of this medication without consulting your doctor, as it may cause the return of fast/irregular heartbeat.  

Keep taking Betapace even if you feel fine. Do not discontinue use without consulting your doctor, as stopping suddenly may result in chest pain or a heart attack. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Betapace. If any of them last or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. 

Common Side Effects 

• Slow heart beats 
• Trouble breathing 
• Dizziness 
• Weakness 
• Tiredness 

Serious Side Effects 

• Chest pain 
• Fast or pounding heartbeats 
• Fluttering in your chest 
• Sudden dizziness 
• Lightheadedness 
• Slow heartbeats 
• Swelling 
• Rapid weight gain 
• Shortness of breath 

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms. 

Allergic Reactions 

In rare cases, Betapace may cause a severe allergic reaction. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as: 

• Rash 
• Itching or swelling especially of the face, tongue, or throat 
• Dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Betapace. If you experience any other effects not mentioned above, inform your doctor promptly. 

Cautions 

Before taking Betapace, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to sotalol, other medicines, or any ingredients present in Betapace tablets.  

To ensure Betapace is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of: 

• Certain heart rhythm problems like a slow heartbeat, sick sinus syndrome, second- or third-degree atrioventricular block (unless you have a heart pacemaker) 
• Kidney problems 
• Heart problems such as heart failure or a recent heart attack 
• Breathing problems like asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema 
• Overactive thyroid disease (hyperthyroidism) 
• Serious allergic reactions requiring treatment with epinephrine 

Betapace may interact with other medications including fingolimod. To reduce the risk of such drug interactions, inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the products and medicines you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products. 

Various medications, including those listed below, can affect the heart rhythm (QT prolongation in the EKG), in addition to Betapace: 

• Amiodarone 
• Disopyramide 
• Dofetilide 
• Pimozide 
• Procainamide 
• Quinidine 
• Macrolide antibiotics such as clarithromycin and erythromycin 

Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are using cough-and-cold products, diet aids, or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen/naproxen, as some of their ingredients may increase your heart rate. Ask for guidance on their safe use. 

Separate doses of antacids containing aluminum or magnesium and Betapace for at least 2 hours to reduce the interaction between them. These antacids can bind to Betapace and decrease its absorption and effectiveness. 

Betapace can affect certain medical and laboratory tests, leading to inaccurate results. Inform all medical professionals, including laboratory personnel, that you are taking this medication. 

Betapace may cause drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you. 

If you have diabetes, Betapace may mask symptoms of low blood sugar and make it harder to control your blood sugar. Monitor your blood sugar regularly and inform your doctor of any changes. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet. 

Children, especially those who are vomiting or not eating regularly, may be at increased risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). To avoid low blood sugar, ensure children are fed on a regular schedule. If the child is unable to eat regularly, experiences vomiting, or shows symptoms of low blood sugar such as sweating or seizures, discontinue this medication immediately and inform your doctor. 

The use of Betapace during pregnancy should only be considered when the potential benefits outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before using this medication. 

Consult your doctor before breastfeeding as sotalol can pass into breast milk and may have adverse effects on the nursing infant.