Sotalol

What is Sotalol?

Sotalol is an oral medication belonging to a group of medications known as antiarrhythmics. Its purpose is to slow the electrical impulses through the heart by blocking how potassium is able to leave the heart cell. It also has a beta blocker effect, decreasing the heart’s response to stress, lowering the heart rate, as well as the risk for certain arrhythmias.

Uses/Indications

• Ventricular premature contractions
• Ventricular Tachycardia
• Supraventricular Tachycardia
• Rate control in Atrial Fibrillation

Adverse Effects

[please contact CVCA should any of these symptoms be noted]

• Negative effect on heart muscle strength resulting in signs of heart failure
• Abnormally slow heart rate resulting in lethargy or weakness
• Uncommonly causes decreased appetite, vomiting or diarrhea
• Rare complication to worsen arrhythmias

Client Information

• Can be given with food, but more effective on an empty stomach
• Comes in tablet form, but can be reformulated into capsules or flavored liquids

• Please do not abruptly stop the medication, skip or change dosages without veterinary approval
• Often used in combination with other antiarrhythmic medications (Mexiletine, Digoxin) in cases of difficult to control arrhythmias or atrial fibrillation
• Monitoring by auscultation, ECG and Holter monitor will help determine if the medication is controlling the abnormal heart rhythm

Interactions with other Drugs

• Cisapride, acepromazine, quinidine, procainamide, tricyclic antidepressants (clomipramine, amitriptyline, doxepin) carry a small risk in veterinary patients of inducing a worsening arrhythmia
• Calcium channel blockers (Verapamil, Diltiazem) may increase risk for low blood pressure and low heart rates
• The doctors at CVCA have taken this into account, however, please feel free to contact CVCA regarding any concurrent medications your pet may be prescribed

Standard Dosage Forms

Sotalol HCL Tablets – 80mg, 120mg, 160mg, 240mg

Synonyms

(Sotalol, Betapace)