Tikosyn (dofetilide) is a prescription drug that’s used to treat certain heart rhythm problems. The drug comes as an oral capsule that you usually take twice daily.

Tikosyn is used in adults for the following indications:

The active ingredient in Tikosyn is dofetilide. Tikosyn belongs to a group of drugs called antiarrhythmics.

This article describes the dosage of Tikosyn, as well as its strengths and how to take it. To learn more about Tikosyn, see this in-depth article.

This section describes the usual dosage of Tikosyn. Keep reading to learn more.

What is Tikosyn’s form?

Tikosyn is available as an oral capsule.

What strengths does Tikosyn come in?

Tikosyn comes in three strengths:

  • 125 micrograms (mcg)
  • 250 mcg
  • 500 mcg

What is the usual dosage of Tikosyn?

The information below describes the dosage that is commonly used or recommended. In some cases, doctors may adjust your dosage from those shown below. Be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs.

Dosage for atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter

The typical Tikosyn dosage for adults with atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter is 500 mcg twice daily.

To make sure you get the right dosage, doctors typically start Tikosyn in the hospital. This Tikosyn dosing protocol allows in-hospital monitoring of your heart and kidney function. Typically, the doctor monitors you in the hospital for 3 days.

Is Tikosyn taken long term?

Yes, Tikosyn is usually taken as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that it’s safe and effective for your condition, you’ll likely take it long term.

Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about Tikosyn’s dosage.

How long can you stay on Tikosyn?

It depends. People took Tikosyn in studies that lasted up to 3 years. Based on this, doctors often prescribe Tikosyn for long-term treatment. As long as it is safe and effective for you, your doctor likely will recommend continuing it.

If you have questions or concerns about taking Tikosyn long term, talk with your doctor.

How many doses of Tikosyn can you miss?

It’s very important not to miss any doses of Tikosyn. Missing doses of Tikosyn could mean you’ll need to restart it in the hospital, where your doctor can monitor you properly.

Follow your doctor’s instructions for managing a missed dose. Typically, if you miss a dose of Tikosyn, you’ll skip the missed dose. And then you’ll take the next dose at your scheduled time. Do not take two doses of Tikosyn at the same time.

If you miss two sequential doses of Tikosyn, call your doctor right away.

Call your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about a missed dose of Tikosyn.

Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking Tikosyn. Typically, you’ll swallow a dose twice daily with or without food. It’s best to take your doses at about the same times each day.

Do not stop taking Tikosyn unless your doctor tells you to do so.

Do not take more Tikosyn than your doctor prescribes, as this can lead to harmful effects.

Symptoms of overdose

Symptoms caused by an overdose can include:

  • Ventricular arrhythmia: is an irregular heart rhythm that can cause heart palpitations or fainting. (Palpitations are irregular or rapid beating of the heart.)
  • Cardiac arrest: Cardiac arrest refers to the loss of all heart activity, and it can be fatal.

What to do in case you take too much Tikosyn

Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much Tikosyn. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach America’s Poison Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number. Or go to the nearest emergency room.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.