BETAPACE (SOTALOL)

About Betapace

Betapace is prescribed to stabilize abnormal heartbeats called arrhythmias, these are disruptions in the regularity of your heartbeats. Some people may have an arrhythmia and not even be aware of what’s happening while others may feel chest pain, dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath. See your doctor and discuss your treatment plan that includes a healthier lifestyle and Betapace or generic Sotalol. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Beta Blockers Work

Betapace is a beta blocker medication that works to slow down the electrical impulses in your heart muscle by blocking the function of epinephrine (also called adrenaline). This action helps to regulate your heart rhythm by reducing the number of heartbeats and the force of each beat. Your blood pressure is also reduced by taking Betapace as prescribed. Heart disease and high blood pressure are two big factors for atrial fibrillation and can cause heart damage that may lead to arrhythmia.

Conditions Treated by Betapace

Arrhythmias can develop for many reasons: stress, drug use, diet, congenital heart disease, diabetes, and excessive alcohol consumption to name a few. Atrial fibrillation (A-fib) is the most common abnormal heart rhythm condition that involves irregular electrical discharges throughout the upper chambers of your heart (left and right atria) which reduces the ability of the atria to pump blood into the ventricles (lower chambers-left and right ventricle). This results in a rapid heartbeat that causes you to feel dizzy, weak, and fatigued. If your doctor feels that Betapace will benefit your situation, you may need close monitoring until it is known how your heart reacts to the drug.

Before You Take Betapace

Your doctor should be made aware of other health conditions you may have that could interfere with taking Betapace. A disclosure of your medical history and list of current Rx drugs, OTC meds, and any dietary or vitamin supplements should be noted. If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, talk to your doctor about possible harmful effects to your unborn or nursing baby before taking Betapace.

Betapace Precautions and Recommendations

You should not take Betapace if you have asthma, certain serious heart conditions, or a history of Long QT syndrome. Do not attempt to drive or take part in any activity that requires you to be alert and in control of your balance until you know how Betapace will affect you. Keep all medications out of children’s reach and never share them with anyone else.

Possible Side Effects of Betapace

• Heartburn
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Headache

Call your doctor right away if you experience any of the following side effects while taking Betapace: severe diarrhea or vomiting, rapid weight gain, trouble breathing, dry mouth or increased thirst.