Dofetilide (Generic Name)
Other Names: Tikosyn®

Dosage forms

Oral capsules: 125 mcg, 250 mcg, 500 mcg

About this drug

Dofetilide is used to treat atrial fibrillation (irregular heart rhythm). Your doctor will start this medicine while you are in the hospital. This allows him or her to check your heart rhythm with an electrocardiogram (ECG). To determine the proper dose, your doctor will order blood tests from time to time to see how well your kidneys are working.

Side effects

Common side effects are:

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness. Be careful while taking this drug. Driving and using machines can be dangerous if you are not alert.
  • Headache
  • Nausea

Rare side effects include:

  • Chest pain
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Vomiting with loss of appetite

If any of the side effects becomes severe or bothers you, call your doctor. Do not take over-the-counter medicine for your symptoms.

Drug interactions

Tell all health care professionals that you take this medication. You should wear a medical alert bracelet that identifies the condition you have. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription medicine, over-the-counter medicine, or herbal products that you are taking. He or she will check for interactions.

If you miss a dose

If you miss a medicine dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at its scheduled time, and continue your usual dosing schedule. Do not “double up” on doses to catch up.

How to take this medicine

Take this medicine twice a day, at the same time every day. You may take it with or without food.


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