Drug

Sotalol

Common brand names:

Betapace, Betapace AF

Sotalol is used to treat certain types of heart arrhythmia, and is in a family of drugs known as beta-adrenergic blockers.

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods

  • Negative Interactions

    2

    • Sotalol

      Pleurisy Root

      Potential Negative Interaction

      As pleurisy root and other plants in the Aesclepius genus contain cardiac glycosides, it is best to avoid use of pleurisy root with heart medications such as beta-blockers.

      Pleurisy Root
      Sotalol
      ×
      1. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 213-4.

    • Sotalol

      Calcium

      Reduces Effectiveness

      One controlled study showed that taking sotalol with a calcium gluconate solution dramatically reduces the absorption of the drug. Consequently, people who take a calcium supplement should take sotalol an hour before or two hours after the calcium.

      Calcium
      Sotalol
      ×
      1. Kahela P, Anttila M, Tikkanen R, Sundquist H. Effect of food, food constituents and fluid volume on the bioavailability of sotalol. Acta Pharmacol Toxicol (Copenh) 1979;44:7-12.

  • Explanation Required

    1

    • Sotalol

      Potassium

      Needs Explanation

      People with prolonged diarrhea and vomiting, as well as those taking potassium-depleting diuretics, might develop low blood potassium levels. Individuals with low blood potassium levels who take sotalol have an increased risk of developing a serious heart arrhythmia and fainting. Therefore, people taking sotalol should have their blood potassium levels checked regularly and may need to supplement with potassium, especially when taking potassium-depleting diuretics.

      Some beta-adrenergic blockers (called “nonselective” beta blockers) decrease the uptake of potassium from the blood into the cells, leading to excess potassium in the blood, a potentially dangerous condition known as hyperkalemia. People taking beta-blockers should therefore avoid taking potassium supplements, or eating large quantities of fruit (e.g., bananas), unless directed to do so by their doctor.

      Potassium
      Sotalol
      ×
      1. Rosa RM, Silva P, Young JB, et al. Adrenergic modulation of extrarenal potassium disposal. N Engl J Med 1980;302:431-4.
      2. Lundborg P. The effect of adrenergic blockade on potassium concentrations in different conditions. Acta Med Scand Suppl 1983;672:121-6 [review].
The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.

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