What is the benefit of the new labeling for Betapace AF compared to standard Betapace? Are there any problems in converting between the two agents?

BetapaceŇ AF and BetapaceŇ come in the same strengths and are dosed in much the same way. BetapaceŇ AF differs in its patient package insert, dosing, and safety information. This labeling provides detailed information on in-patient and out-patient dosing of BetapaceŇ AF for atrial fibrillation. The dosing of BetapaceŇ AF is based on creatinine clearance and is as follows:¹

CrCl > 60 mL/min BID (twice daily)

CrCl 40-60 mL/min QD (once daily)

CrCl <40 mL/min Contraindicated

The starting dose is 80 mg, with a maximum dosage of 160 mg BID with a CrCl >60 mL/min.¹

There is no information reporting problems with switching patients stabilized on BetapaceŇ to BetapaceŇ AF. It is recommended that patients with atrial fibrillation who are taking BetapaceŇ switch to BetapaceŇ AF due to its special labeling.¹

Reference:

1. Sifton DW, Murray L, et al, eds. Betapace and Betapace AF. In: Physicians’ Desk Reference 2001. 55^th ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc.; 2001:905-912.