Buy Betapace Online | Sotalol Hydrochloride - Pharmacy Deals
Betapace (Sotalol Hydrochloride) Information
Betapace, containing the active ingredient Sotalol Hydrochloride, is a prescription medication primarily used for the treatment of certain heart rhythm disorders. It is available in tablet form, typically in strengths of 80 mg, 120 mg, and 160 mg.
Indications
- Ventricular arrhythmias: Specifically, for the maintenance of sinus rhythm in patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) and for the suppression of documented, life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.
- Atrial Fibrillation/Flutter: Used to maintain normal heart rhythm in patients experiencing these conditions.
Mechanism of Action
Sotalol Hydrochloride is classified as a Class III antiarrhythmic drug, though it also possesses Class II (beta-adrenergic blocking) properties. Its primary action involves prolonging the refractory period of the atria, ventricles, and atrioventricular (AV) node, and increasing the ventricular fibrillation threshold. It achieves this by blocking both beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors, which slows the heart rate and reduces myocardial contractility. This electrical stabilization helps to prevent abnormal heart rhythms.
Safety Profile
Benefits: Betapace effectively controls and prevents serious heart rhythm disturbances, improving quality of life for many patients. It is particularly useful in maintaining sinus rhythm in atrial fibrillation.
Side Effects: Common side effects include fatigue, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, and bradycardia (slow heart rate). More serious potential side effects can include QT interval prolongation (which can lead to torsades de pointes, a dangerous heart rhythm), heart failure, bronchospasm, and hhypotension. Patients with a history of asthma or severe heart failure should use with caution.
Contraindications: Betapace is contraindicated in patients with bronchial asthma or severe reactive airway disease, sinus bradycardia, second or third-degree AV block (unless a functioning pacemaker is present), cardiogenic shock, uncompensated heart failure, and known hypersensitivity to sotalol hydrochloride.
Warnings: Use requires careful monitoring of electrocardiograms (ECGs) for QT interval prolongation and heart rate. Dosage adjustments may be necessary, especially when initiating therapy or changing doses. Beta-blocker therapy should not be abruptly discontinued. Patients with significant renal impairment require dose adjustment due to the drug's primary excretion route.
Dosage Table
| Condition | Recommended Dosage | Treatment Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Symptomatic Atrial Fibrillation (Maintenance of Sinus Rhythm) | 160 mg twice daily. Dosage may be increased to 240 mg or 320 mg twice daily if needed, based on response and tolerability. | Continuous therapy, subject to physician monitoring. |
| Ventricular Arrhythmias (Life-threatening) | Starting dose of 160 mg once daily (or 80 mg twice daily). May be increased incrementally every 3 days to a maximum of 640 mg per day, divided into two doses. Titration should be done in a hospital setting with ECG monitoring. | Continuous theRapy, subject to physician monitoring. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Betapace primarily used for?
Betapace is primarily prescribed to maintain a normal heart rhythm in patients who have atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter, and to suppress serious ventricular arrhythmias.
Can Betapace cause slow heart rate?
Yes, a slow heart rate (bradycardia) is a common side effect of Betapace because it is a beta-blocker. Patients are usually monitored for this side effect.
Is Betapace safe for everyone with heart conditions?
No, Betapace is not suitable for everyone. It is contraindicated in patients with conditions like asthma, certain types of heart block, cardiogenic shock, and uncompensated heart failure. Always consult your doctor.
How should Betapace be taken?
Betapace should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually twice a day. It's important not to stop taking it suddenly. Dosage adjustments are carefully managed by healthcare professionals.
