Sotalol

Definition

Sotalol is a medication used to treat and prevent abnormal heart rhythms by blocking potassium channels. It exhibits both beta-blocking and antiarrhythmic properties.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sotalol is classified as a Class III antiarrhythmic agent due to its potassium channel-blocking effects.
2. It prolongs the action potential duration and refractory period, which helps in stabilizing cardiac rhythm.
3. Sotalol also has non-selective beta-adrenergic blocking activity, contributing to its antiarrhythmic effectiveness.
4. It is commonly used in the treatment of atrial fibrillation, ventricular arrhythmias, and other supraventricular tachycardias.
5. Patients taking Sotalol should be monitored for QT interval prolongation, which could lead to life-threatening arrhythmias like Torsades de Pointes.

Review Questions

• What class of antiarrhythmic agents does Sotalol belong to?
• How does Sotalol help stabilize cardiac rhythm?
• Why is monitoring for QT interval prolongation important in patients taking Sotalol?

Related terms

Atrial Fibrillation: A common type of arrhythmia characterized by rapid and irregular beating.

Ventricular Arrhythmias: Abnormal heart rhythms originating from the lower chambers of the heart.

Torsades de Pointes: A specific type of life-threatening arrhythmia associated with prolonged QT intervals.