Key takeaways
Multaq (dronedarone) and sotalol (Betapace) are both antiarrhythmic medications used to treat heart rhythm problems, but they have some key differences. Multaq is only available as a brand-name medication and is taken twice daily with food to lower the risk of hospitalization in adults with atrial fibrillation (AFib). It works mainly by blocking potassium channels in the heart. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain. On the other hand, sotalol is available in both generic and brand-name forms and is used to treat and prevent various heart rhythm issues, including ventricular arrhythmias and AFib. Sotalol is a non-selective beta blocker and potassium channel blocker, and it often requires hospitalization for at least three days when starting the medication to monitor for serious side effects. Sotalol can cause low blood pressure, dizziness, and breathing problems, especially in people with asthma or COPD. While both medications help manage heart rhythms, Multaq is not safe for use in severe heart failure or permanent AFib, whereas sotalol requires careful monitoring and has more restrictions related to other medical conditions.
