GENERIC NAME: DOFETILIDE - ORAL (doh-FET-ill-ide)

BRAND NAME(S): Tikosyn

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

WARNING: This medication may sometimes produce new, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). It is recommended you stay in the hospital for 3 days where proper monitoring (e.g., renal function, EKG) and support (cardiac resuscitation) is available until your body adjusts to the effects of this medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

USES: This medication is used to treat irregular heartbeats (symptomatic atrial fibrillation/flutter arrhythmias). It is used to restore normal heart rhythm, and also to maintain regular, steady heartbeats.

HOW TO USE: This medication is taken by mouth as directed. When your dosage of dofetilide is started, restarted, or increased you will be monitored in a hospital (e.g., EKG and kidney function tests, and observation). This special monitoring will minimize the chances of developing serious side effects. Your dofetilide dosage is based on your medical condition (including heart and kidney function) and response to therapy. It is very important to continue taking this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Taken improperly, or without proper monitoring, this medication can build up in your bloodstream and may actually cause new, very serious irregular heartbeats. Avoid grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea or headache may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: dizziness, fainting, irregular heartbeat. Mineral imbalances can increase the risk of developing drug side effects. Tell your doctor immediately if you have symptoms indicating a possible mineral imbalance such as: muscle cramps or weakness, prolonged diarrhea, excessive thirst or sweating, vomiting, loss of appetite. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.