sotalol
Pronunciation: SOH-tah-lol
Class III antiarrhythmic medication with beta-blocking properties, used for both atrial and ventricular arrhythmias.
Full Definition
Sotalol is a unique antiarrhythmic agent that combines class III (potassium channel blocking) and class II (beta-adrenergic blocking) properties. It prolongs the action potential duration and effective refractory period while also providing rate control through beta-blockade. Sotalol is effective for treating both atrial fibrillation and ventricular arrhythmias, but its use requires careful monitoring due to its potential for causing QT prolongation and torsades de pointes. The drug must be initiated in a monitored setting with baseline and follow-up ECGs to assess QT interval changes and renal function monitoring due to predominantly renal elimination.
Usage
Usage note: Requires inpatient initiation; monitor QT interval and renal function.
In Context
- "Sotalol initiation required inpatient monitoring with serial ECGs to assess for QT prolongation and proarrhythmic effects." — Hospital admission note
- "The patient's recurrent atrial fibrillation was successfully controlled with sotalol 80 mg twice daily." — Cardiology clinic follow-up