VERIFIED CONTENTAuthor: Karolina Porowska

Amiodarone is an organic chemical compound. It belongs to the III group of antiarrhythmic drugs (an iodine-rich benzofuran derivative). The drug was synthesized in 1961 in the Belgian pharmaceutical company Labaz Group as a result of the search for new drugs against angina. The drug can be purchased by prescription in the form of a solution for injection and film-coated tablets.

Composition of amiodarone

Tablet (200 mg) contains:

  • active ingredient: amiodarone hydrochloride (Amiodaroni hydrochloridum);
  • excipients: maize starch, lactose monohydrate 200 mesh, magnesium stearate, povidone K90 F, colloidal anhydrous silica.

Action of amiodarone

The drug has a multidirectional effect on the circulatory system. First of all, it reduces the influence of potassium ions from cells, prolongs the third phase of the action potential (repolarization), contributes to lowering automatism of the sinus node (physiological pacemaker).

Slows conduction at the level of the sinoatrial node, the atria, and the atrioventricular node without affecting intraventricular conduction.

In addition, it lowers blood pressure, relieves the work of the heart muscle and blocks α- and β-adrenergic receptors.

Use of amiodarone

Amiodaron has been used to maintain a normal heartbeat in people with a life-threatening disturbance of the heart rhythm of the ventricles (the lower chambers of the heart that allow blood to flow out of the heart).

Indications for the use of amiodarone

It is recommended to use the drug in:

  • arrhythmias in the course of Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome,
  • atrial fibrillation
  • atrial flutter,
  • paroxysmal supraventricular tachyarrhythmias,
  • supraventricular and nodal tachycardia when other medications cannot be used
  • treatment of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.

Contraindications to the use of amiodarone

Do not use the drug if you are allergic to amiodarone and any of the modules listed in the composition of the drug. Contraindication to the use of the drug is:

  • thyroid disease,
  • sinus bradycardia,
  • sinus blockvestibular,
  • sick sinus syndrome,
  • except for people with an implanted pacemaker (risk of node suppression),
  • 2nd or 3rd degree atrioventricular block, except for people with a pacemaker

Amiodarone dosage

The drug should be used as described in the patient information leaflet or according to specific guidelines and recommendations of a doctor or pharmacist. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

Precautions

Before starting the use of amiodarone, it is recommended to perform ECG tests, check the level of TSH and serum potassium.

Particular care should be taken in patients with:

  • cardiac dysfunction,
  • thyroid dysfunction,
  • respiratory system disorders,
  • hepatic impairment,
  • neuromuscular disorders
  • and / or vision problems.

Side effects of amiodarone

Amiodaron can primarily cause:

  • nausea,
  • photosensitivity,
  • taste disturbance,
  • increase in the activity of liver enzymes in the blood serum,
  • vomiting,
  • visual disturbance
  • and gray color of the skin.

Interaction with other drugs and diseases

In order to avoid undesirable ailments, inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications that are currently or recently used, as well as about medications that the patient is going to use.

You should also inform your doctor about your current he alth condition, about any diseases or additional ailments you are struggling with.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Before taking the drug, inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The use of amiodarone during pregnancy and breastfeeding is generally not recommended.

Storing medicine

The drug should be stored in a suitable place that is invisible and inaccessible to children. Store in a dry place below 30 ° C in the original packaging. The drug should not be used after the expiry date stated on the package. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.

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He alth