Sotalol: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Sotalol is a beta-blocker that also controls certain heart rhythms. It belongs to the Antiarrhythmic (heart rhythm) group. These control abnormal heart rhythms.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Antiarrhythmic (heart rhythm)
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Keeping a normal rhythm in atrial fibrillation
Some serious ventricular rhythm problems
Preventing rhythm recurrence after treatment

Common brand names

India: Sotagard, Sotalol
Worldwide: Betapace

Common side effects

Tiredness
Slow heartbeat
Dizziness
Cold hands and feet

Before taking it — precautions

Usually started with ECG monitoring, often in hospital
Kidney function and potassium and magnesium levels are checked
Tell the doctor about asthma, and avoid other medicines that affect the QT interval

When to see a doctor urgently

Fainting or a racing, irregular heartbeat (urgent)
Severe dizziness with a very slow pulse (urgent)
Wheezing or breathlessness

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of sotalol depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Is sotalol a normal beta-blocker?

It is a beta-blocker, but it also has extra rhythm-control effects, so it needs more careful monitoring than drugs like atenolol.

Why does my doctor check ECGs?

Sotalol can lengthen the heart's electrical recovery time (QT), which may trigger a dangerous rhythm.

What about diarrhoea or vomiting?

Losing salts like potassium raises the risk of rhythm problems. Contact your doctor if you have severe diarrhoea or vomiting.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.