Amiodarone

Information About Amiodarone

Uses of Amiodarone

Amiodarone is commonly used to treat arrhythmias

How Amiodarone Works

Amiodarone affects sodium, potassium and calcium channel. It also affects alpha and beta-adrenergic receptor and prolongs the action potential and refractory period of the heart tissue

Side Effects of Amiodarone

Slow pulse, Tremor, Nightmares, Headache, Nausea, Vomiting, Altered taste, Hot flushes, Fatigue

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Amiodarone Related Warnings

Alcohol Safe

There is no known interaction or adverse effects recorded when alcohol and Amiodarone are consumed together.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Animal and human studies have indicated risk to fetal development and hence is contraindicated to be used during pregnancy unless the benefit outweigh the risk where in this circumstances, it must be supervised by a specialist.

Lactation Not Advisable

Amiodarone is excreted into the breastmilk and thus contraindicated to be used if breastfeeding as the effects on the infant can be serious.

Driving Not advisable

Amiodarone may cause eyes discomfort when the person is exposed to sunlight which can affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Kidney Safe If Prescribed

Amiodarone is generally safe to be used in patients with renal impairment. No dose adjustment needed unless patient developed electrolytes imbalance.

Liver High Risk

Baseline liver function should be evaluated before commencing Amiodarone treatment. Dose adjustment is needed in liver impairment and Amiodarone should be stopped if signs, symptoms or laboratory results indicated hepatic injury.