CDHB

Sotalol

so-ta-lol

What does it do?

Sotalol is used to treat an irregular heartbeat.

Before you start

  • Tell your doctor if you have kidney or circulation problems, asthma or diabetes.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take sotalol regularly as directed with a glass of water.

What if you forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on as normal. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with sotalol including:

  • anti-inflammatories, such as diclofenac (e.g. Voltaren®), ibuprofen (e.g. Nurofen®), or aspirin (e.g. Disprin®, in doses used for pain relief). These can also be found in some cold and flu medicines (e.g. Nurofen Cold and Flu®).

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side EffectsRecommended action

Change in heartbeat

Fainting

Tell your doctor immediately

Lightheaded

Swollen feet or legs, short of breath

Low mood

Tell your doctor

Tiredness or weakness

Trouble sleeping, strange dreams

Cold hands and feet, tingling or numbness

Changes in sexual function

Stomach upset

Tell your doctor if troublesome

Lightheaded or dizzy after standing up

Stand up slowly. If it continues, or is severe, tell your doctor

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

  • Do not stop taking sotalol without talking to your doctor first.