Sotalol Hydrochloride
Generic Details
Generic Name
Sotalol Hydrochloride
Other Names
- Sotalol HCl
Drug Class
- Antiarrhythmic Agent
- Beta-Blocker
Chemical Formula
C12H20N2O3S·HCl
Molecular Weight
308.83 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Acts as a non-selective beta-adrenergic blocker and prolongs repolarization by blocking potassium channels, thus exerting antiarrhythmic effects.
Indications
- Treatment of ventricular arrhythmias
- Maintenance of normal sinus rhythm in patients with atrial fibrillation or flutter
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Oral Solution
Typical Dosage
- 80-160 mg twice daily for arrhythmias
Pediatric Dosage
- Safety and efficacy not established in children
Geriatric Dosage
- Start with a lower dose due to decreased renal function
Side Effects
- Bradycardia
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
Contraindications
- Severe bradycardia
- Heart block greater than first degree
- Hypokalemia
Pregnancy Category
- C - Risk not ruled out
Lactation Safety
- L3 - Considered moderately safe while breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- Amiodarone
- Digoxin
- Verapamil
- Thioridazine
Overdose Symptoms
- Hypotension
- Bradycardia
- Cardiac arrest
Antidote for Overdose
- Intravenous isoproterenol or pacing for bradycardia
- Standard advanced cardiac life support for arrhythmias
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed after oral administration
- Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier and is distributed into breast milk
- Metabolism: Extensively metabolized by the liver
- Excretion: Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine
Precautions
- Monitor ECG and renal function regularly
- Avoid sudden withdrawal to prevent rebound arrhythmias
Warnings
- May cause proarrhythmic effects
- Risk of torsades de pointes in patients with prolonged QT interval
Others
- This medication should be initiated in a hospital setting due to the risk of serious arrhythmias.