Dofetilide (Tikosyn) Uses

Dofetilide is used to treat highly symptomatic atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter. It is also used for maintaining sinus rhythm in patients with atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter who have been converted to normal rhythm. Studies show dofetilide delays the return of abnormal heart rhythms after the conversion of atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter to normal sinus rhythm. 

Dofetilide is not the first-choice drug for irregular heart rhythms because it can cause life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Because of this risk, patients with atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter need to stay in a healthcare facility for at least 3 days of monitoring when first starting dofetilide.

There may be other uses for dofetilide—your doctor or health system pharmacists can give you further drug information.

Dofetilide (Tikosyn) Mechanism of Action

Dofetilide belongs to a group of drugs called cation transport system inhibitors or potassium channel blockers. It decreases abnormal or overactive electrical signals in the heart by selectively blocking cardiac potassium ion channels.

Dofetilide (Tikosyn) Doses

Dofetilide is available in capsule form in strengths of 125 mcg, 250 mcg, and 500 mcg. 

Dofetilide (Tikosyn) treatment must be started in a healthcare setting that has continuous electrocardiographic (ECG) monitoring capabilities and trained personnel to manage serious ventricular arrhythmias. You need to stay in the hospital for at least 3 days when starting this medicine. Additionally, you will not be discharged until at least 12 hours have passed after conversion to normal rhythm.

The dose of dofetilide is calculated based on creatinine clearance and QT interval. The usual dose is 500 mcg twice daily.