-
Sotalol is a nonselective
beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist that also
blocks potassium currents.
-
Sotalol prolongs action
potential duration, decreases automaticity, slows
impulse transmission through the AV node and
prolongs AV nodal refractoriness.
-
It is used in management of ventricular
tachyarrhythmias and is also used in treatment of
atrial arrhythmias.
-
Antiarrhythmic effects are due both to
beta-adrenergic receptor and potassium channel
blockade.
-
Normally, sympathetic drive results in
increased in Ca2+
,K+
,and Cl-
currents. Increased sympathetic tone also
increases phase 4 depolarization (heart rate goes
up), and increases DAD (delayed
afterdepolarizations) and EAD (early
afterdepolarization) mediated arrhythmias. These
effects are blocked by beta-adrenergic receptor
blockers.
|