Sotalol is a beta-blocker prescription drug that is prescribed for high blood pressure, or hypertension, and abnormal heart rhythms. Beta blockers are often prescribed after a heart attack to prevent irregular heart rates. The mineral magnesium is essential for cardiovascular health. Atrial fibrillation occurs when the atria, or upper chambers, of the heart have irregular contractions. This is a common complication after cardiac surgeries and can be life-threatening. According to research published in the "Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery" in 2006, Sotalol and magnesium can significantly reduce atrial fibrillation in patients who have had heart surgery. Consult your doctor about these medications for heart health.
Step 1
Take Sotalol exactly as prescribed by your doctor to prevent a heart attack. Consume this medication at the same times every day, being careful not to miss a dose. Sotalol is usually prescribed at dosages of 80 to 160 mg per day in divided doses. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Sotalol can be ingested with or without food.
Step 2
Ingest 40 mg of Sotalol twice a day, swallowed whole with a glass of water to decrease your risk of irregular heart rhythm following heart surgery, such as a coronary artery bypass graft. Begin this beta-blocker medication preventive therapy from the day after your surgery and continue the daily dosage for six weeks.
Step 3
Receive 2 g of magnesium concurrently with Sotalol after your heart surgery. The magnesium is usually administered intravenously as a liquid. Magnesium may be given only immediately after the surgery and on the second day, or for longer durations depending on the patient. It does not have to be taken for the same duration as Sotalol.
Tips and Warnings
- Treatment to improve cardiovascular health includes lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and exercise regimen, as well as medications. Magnesium supplements may also be given regularly in an oral dosage to treat and prevent heart disease. Like other prescription medications, Sotalol can cause side effects. Report any reactions or side effects to your doctor.
- Consult your doctor about taking magnesium for heart health. This mineral works in conjunction with calcium in the body and must be carefully balanced. All the research on magnesium and heart health is not positive. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that one study found that magnesium may slightly worsen heart disease in some cases.
Things You'll Need
- Sotalol prescription medication
- Magnesium prescription supplements
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