Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 20, 2022.
Amiodarone oral tablet is intended for use only in patients with the indicated life-threatening arrhythmias because its use is accompanied by substantial toxicity. Amiodarone can cause pulmonary toxicity (hypersensitivity pneumonitis or interstitial/alveolar pneumonitis) that has resulted in clinically manifest disease at rates as high as 17% in some series of patients. Pulmonary toxicity has been fatal about 10% of the time. Obtain a baseline chest X-ray and pulmonary-function tests, including diffusion capacity, when therapy is initiated. Repeat history, physical exam, and chest X-ray every 3 to 6 months. Amiodarone can cause hepatoxicity, which can be fatal. Obtain baseline and periodic liver transaminases and discontinue or reduce dose if the increase exceeds three times normal, or doubles in a patient with an elevated baseline. Discontinue if the patient experiences signs or symptoms of clinical liver injury. Amiodarone can exacerbate arrhythmias. Initiate in a clinical setting where continuous electrocardiograms and cardiac resuscitation are available .
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Cordarone
- Pacerone
Available Dosage Forms:
- Tablet
Therapeutic Class: Antiarrhythmic, Group III
Chemical Class: Benzofuran
Uses for amiodarone
Amiodarone is used to treat life-threatening heart rhythm problems called ventricular arrhythmias. Amiodarone is used in patients who have already been treated with other medicines that did not work well.
Amiodarone belongs to the group of medicines known as antiarrhythmics. It works directly on the heart tissue and will slow the nerve impulses in the heart. This helps keep your heart rhythm normal.
Amiodarone is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using amiodarone
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For amiodarone, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to amiodarone or any other medicines. Also tell ..
