Sotalol

[Summerlily]

I am new here. , also new to AF

I have so many questions as it has all been rather a shock .

I will start with my main concern of the moment

I had a cardioversion about six weeks ago and since then my heart has been in the correct rhythm .

For the first month after the cardioversion I was on Xarelto and Amiodarone .Two weeks ago the Amiodarone was replaced by Sotalol .I take 80 mg night and morning

Since starting this drug I have been extremely tired ,I could sleep all day and all night .From doing all day walks I have gone down to finding one hours exercise too much .My legs feel achey and I feel giddy .

Does anyone else have these problems with this drug ?

Also ,after a successful Cardioversion do I have to remain on drugs for ever ?

Thank you for any suggestions and observations

[Hidden]

I can’t help with the question of how long you need to remain on medication, I’m afraid, as it depends on how successful the cardioversion turns out to be in the longer term. The fact that it’s worked so far is great, but unfortunately that doesn’t mean your AF is definitely gone for good, and it can return weeks or months later. I can tell you that beta blockers (of which sotalol is one) can cause people to feel how you’re describing. However, it’s worth persevering for a few weeks, as the body does adjust to the medication and in many cases the side effects reduce or disappear completely. If after 6 to 8 weeks it’s not improved (or improving), there are several other beta blockers available that you can try and see if they suit you better - just because you get side effects from one doesn’t mean they’re all going to give you the same issue.

[Soldierboy]

As Charlie_G has said - "keep persevering", it will take you a while to get use to it. I have been on Sotalol for near 10 years with varies doses taken over that time from 40mg - twice a day and as much as 160mg - twice a day. In May 2019 I had more VT ablation and was put back up to 160mg x 2 and I am now on 80 mg x2 each day. I also feel tired sometimes but on the whole I am well and fit, with no real side affects and quite active in what I do. I have had 3 AF ablation procedures and 3 VT ablations procedures in total and am fitted with an ICD. One of the small side affects I experience is dreams, hard to explain really, but I cope alright with it. Not really much more I can say, except all the best and wish you well with whatever drugs you finally end up on.

[Summerlily in reply to Soldierboy]

Thank you both so much ,very reassuring .I was going to the doctor to ask if I could change the dosage but after hearing from you both I have cancelled my appointment

The last thing I want is to have my heart going out of rhythm so will persevere for longer .

All the very best to you both ,you have helped a lot