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Precautions and Warnings With Sotalol
There are several precautions and warnings with sotalol to be aware of before starting treatment. For example, it is important to know that the medication may actually increase the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias and can worsen certain medical conditions, such as asthma or heart failure. You should not use sotalol if you have long QT syndrome, cardiogenic shock, or uncontrolled congestive heart failure.
from eMedTV.comYou should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking sotalol hydrochloride (Betapace®, Sorine®) if you have:
- Severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting
- Low electrolytes (such as low potassium levels)
- Long QT syndrome
- Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- Diabetes
- Chest pain (angina)
- Heart failure
- Sick sinus syndrome
- A slow heart rate (bradycardia)
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Hyperthyroidism
- An upcoming surgery
- Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
- Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
- Breastfeeding.
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD