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 (Tagametreg;), trimethoprim (Proloprimreg;), trimethoprim with sulfamethoxazole (Bactrimreg;, Septrareg;), ketoconazole (Nizoralreg;), verapamil (Calanreg;), prochlorperazine (Compazinereg;), or megestrol (Megacereg;). 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.

Drugs & Medications

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

The drug reference included in this section is provided by Cerner Multum, Inc., of Denver, Colorado. Armenian Medical Network receives monthly updates from Multum.