Stopping Sotalol suddenly

[Sandych55]

I had my first episode of AF last December and I think I have had one since which lasted a couple of hours but by the time I could get it checked I was back in sinus rhythm. Bisoprolol didn't suit me so I was put on 40mg Sotalol twice a day. However my blood pressure and heart rate is quite low so after speaking to the doctor today he thinks the tablet is doing me more harm than good and to just keep it as a PIP. He said to stop taking it and when I asked him if I should do this gradually he said, no, just stop and see how you get on over the next few days. I'm a bit worried about this and I just wonder if other people have had any experience of stopping like this or any advice?

[jeanjeannie50]

I know how scary it is being told to do that, but I'd trust your doctor. It sounds as though Sotalol is stressing and disturbing your heart rhythm. Hopefully, you'll feel better once stopping it. Be prepared for your heart to play up a little for a few weeks, but do your best to sit it out.

Jean

[Sandych55 in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Thanks Jean. I'm just a bit scared although it would be great to have some energy back!

[jeanjeannie50 in reply to Sandych55]

That would be lovely wouldn't it. I know that scared feeling. Would you feel happier coming off your drug slowly? If so do that and reduce the dose by quarters over a week or two.

[Hidden]

You are on a low dose (I take 2x60mg per day) so I wouldn't expect stopping it would result in anything dramatic happening immediately. If you did get some AF you could always take a further tablet to suppress it.

[Sandych55 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks, that's a good idea. x

[dedeottie]

I was told to stop my 80 g of sotalol twice a day, abruptly, 2 days before my recent EP study and ablation. I was really worried but did as I was told. I had no adverse effects whatsoever. I am fairly sure it was doing nothing for me either as my persistent atrial tachycardia continued on at its usual rate. . X