Dofetilide (By Mouth)

Dofetilide (doe-FET-il-ide)

Treats irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). Belongs to a class of drugs called antiarrhythmics.

Brand Name(s):

Tikosyn
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to dofetilide, or if you are using cimetidine (Tagamet®), trimethoprim (Proloprim®), trimethoprim with sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim®, Septra®), ketoconazole (Nizoral®), verapamil (Calan®), prochlorperazine (Compazine®), or megestrol (Megace®). Do not use this medicine if you have a heart condition called "long QT syndrome," or severe kidney problems.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule

• Your doctor will start you on this medicine in the hospital in order to check your heart rhythm and find the right dose for you.
• Use the exact dose that your doctor ordered. Keep using it even if you feel fine.
• Use this medicine at the same time every day to give your heart a steady supply of the medicine.
• Drink plenty of fluids while you are using this medicine.
• Do not use extra doses or skip doses of this medicine.
• You may need to carry identification that says you are using dofetilide. Ask your doctor about this.

If a dose is missed:

• Skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time.
• Do not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Be sure your doctor knows about all medicines you are using, including vitamins, dietary supplements, and any natural or herbal remedies.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have any heart problems or kidney disease.
• Check with your doctor before changing any prescription or over-the-counter medicines or supplements.
• If you are treated by a different health care provider, or go to a hospital, tell them you are using dofetilide and give them a list of all medicines and supplements you use.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Chest pain
• Fainting
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Increase in thirst
• Severe diarrhea
• Trouble breathing
• Unusual sweating
• Vomiting with loss of appetite

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Cough, runny nose, or sore throat
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.