Sotacor

How does it work?

Sotalol belongs to a group of medicines called beta-blockers, which block beta receptors in the heart, lungs and other organs of the body. Blocking these receptors prevents the action of two chemicals called noradrenaline and adrenaline that occur naturally in the body. These are often referred to as the 'fight or flight' chemicals as they are responsible for the body's reaction to stressful situations. Blocking the beta receptors in the heart causes the heart to beat more slowly and with less force. This medicine also regulates the electrical impulses in the heart which cause it to beat. The overall effect is to control abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). Although it is used to treat arrhythmias, this medicine can also cause arrhythmias in some people. Sotalol is given as tablets, which may be supplemented with injections in emergencies to control abnormal heart beats. Occasionally sotalol is given as an injection only, either during tests to investigate abnormal heartbeats, or as a temporary substitution for tablets.

What is it used for?

Irregular heart beats (arrhythmias)

Warning!

This medicine may mask the symptoms of low blood sugar such as increased heart rate, tremor and nausea. People with diabetes should carefully monitor their blood sugar.

Use with caution in

Abnormal muscle weakness

Chronic (long-term) diarrhoea

Diabetes

History of allergies

Imbalance of salt concentrations in the blood (electrolyte imbalance)

Kidney disease

Liver disease

Not to be used in

A problem common in the elderly, related to poor control of the working of the heart (sick sinus syndrome)

A type of irregular heart beat (Torsades de Pointes)

Angina not well controlled by medical treatment

Asthma

Blockage of arteries in the extremities

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Failure of the heart to maintain adequate circulation of blood (cardiogenic shock)

Heart failure

Increased acid levels in the blood (metabolic acidosis)

Kidney failure

Low blood pressure (hypotension)

Tumour of the adrenal gland (phaeochromocytoma)

Very slow heart rate (severe bradycardia)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine should be used with caution by breastfeeding mothers, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the baby. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Do not stop taking this medication except on your doctor's advice.

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