Brand name Cordarone X
Used in the following combined preparations None
General Information
Amiodarone was introduced in the 1950s and is used to treat a variety of
abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). It works by slowing nerve impulses in the
heart muscle.
Amiodarone is given to prevent recurrent atrial and ventricular fibrillation
and to treat ventricular and supraventricular tachycardias. It is also used to
treat Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome. The drug is usually the last choice because of its serious adverse effects,
especially when used long term. These effects include liver damage, thyroid
problems, and damage to the eyes and lungs.
Treatment should be started only under specialist supervision or in hospital and
the dosage carefully controlled so as to achieve the desired effect using the
lowest possible dose.
Information for Users
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking
with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets, injection.
Frequency and timing of doses
3 x daily or by injection initially, then reduced to twice daily, then once
daily or every other day (maintenance dose).
Adult dosage range
600mg daily, reduced to 400mg, then 100-200mg daily.
Onset of effect
Taken by mouth, some effects may be noticed within 72 hours, but full benefits
may not be felt for some weeks. Taken by injection, effects may be noticed
within 30 minutes.
Duration of action
Up to 1 month.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Protect from light.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 12 hours, do not
take the missed dose. Take your next scheduled dose as usual.
Stopping the drug
Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor; symptoms may recur.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to cause problems. But if you
notice any unusual symptoms or if a large overdose has been taken, notify your
doctor at once.
Possible Adverse Effects
Amiodarone has a number of unusual side increased sensitivity of the skin to
sunlight,
effects, including a metallic taste in the mouth, and a greyish skin colour.
Interactions
General note Amiodarone can interact with many drugs. Check with your doctor or
pharmacist before taking other medications.
Diuretics The potassium loss caused by these drugs may increase toxic effects of
amiodarone.
Other anti-arrhythmic drugs Amiodarone is likely to increase the effects of
drugs such as beta blockers, digoxin, diltiazem, or verapamil.
Warfarin Amiodarone may increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin.
Quick Reference
Drug group Anti-arrhythmic drug
Overdose danger rating Medium
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic Yes (tablets)
Special Precautions
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have long-term liver or kidney problems.
You have heart disease.
You have eye disease.
You have a lung disorder such as asthma or bronchitis.
You have a thyroid disorder.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Not prescribed. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
The drug passes into the breast milk and may affect the baby. Discuss with your
doctor.
Infants and children
Not recommended.
Over 60
Increased likelihood of adverse effects. Reduced dose may therefore be necessary.
Driving and hazardous work
Avoid these activities until you have learned how amiodarone affects you because
the drug can cause the eyes to be dazzled by bright light.
Alcohol
No known problems.
Prolonged Use
Prolonged use of this drug may cause a number of adverse effects on the eyes,
lungs, thyroid gland, and liver.
Monitoring Blood tests may be done periodically to check hormone levels and
liver function and to measure drug levels. Regular ophthalmic examination
is recommended.
