BETAPACE AF

Drug Name: BETAPACE AF

BETAPACE AF DESCRIPTION:
SOTALOL - ORAL (SO-tuh-lol)

COMMON BETAPACE AF BRAND NAME(S):
Betapace

BETAPACE AF SIDE EFFECTS:
Drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, stomach upset, or blurred vision may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. Other common side effects reported include cough, decreased sexual desire, trouble sleeping, reduced concentration, altered taste, dry skin, or muscle aches. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, a rapid pulse, skin rash, breathing trouble, mental confusion, trouble urinating, fever, sore throat; easy bruising or bleeding. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also limit your intake of alcoholic beverages which will aggravate these effects. Use caution performing tasks requiring alertness if this medication causes you to feel drowsy or dizzy. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE BETAPACE AF:
BETAPACE AF: Take BETAPACE AF by mouth on an empty stomach as prescribed. Be sure to follow instructions closely. Do not increase your dose, skip any doses or take this more often than directed. If you use aluminum or calcium-containing antacids, do not take them at the same time as sotalol. Take the antacid 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking sotalol. Do not stop taking BETAPACE AF suddenly without your doctors approval. In some cases, your condition may become worse if the medication is abruptly discontinued.

BETAPACE AF WARNING:
Because BETAPACE AF can cause irregular heartbeats, it should only be started while you are in a hospital where your condition can be closely monitored for at least 3 days. Do not switch brands of BETAPACE AF without checking with your doctor. If you have angina or have had heart problems, do not suddenly stop using BETAPACE AF without first consulting your doctor. If your doctor decides you should no longer use BETAPACE AF, you must stop BETAPACE AF gradually according to your doctor's instructions.

BETAPACE AF USES:
BETAPACE AF is a beta-blocking agent used to treat serious heart rhythm disturbances (arrhythmias).

BETAPACE AF PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor if you have: pre-existing kidney disease, heart disease, lung disease, asthma, emphysema, thyroid disease, diabetes, any allergies. BETAPACE AF should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of BETAPACE AF are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

BETAPACE AF DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: medication for blood pressure; depression, diabetes, water pills, antibiotics, heart medication; antacids that contain aluminum or calcium. Do not take any over-the-counter medication for allergies or cough or colds without consulting your doctor or pharmacists. Many of the products contain ingredients which may interact with this medication's effects. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

BETAPACE AF OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include slow pulse, dizziness, fainting, weakness, seizures, and loss of consciousness.

BETAPACE AF NOTES:
BETAPACE AF is initially given in the hospital where your condition can be monitored closely. Laboratory tests will be done periodically to be sure the drug is working properly and to monitor for possible side effects.

MISSED BETAPACE AF DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

BETAPACE AF STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.