Amiodarone (Cordarone)
Purpose of Medication and Method of Action
Amiodarone is used to treat serious abnormal rhythm disturbances of the heart ventricle. These are in main recurrent ventricular fibrillation and unstable ventricular tachycardia. It acts by prolonging the refractory period in heart tissue thus making it less likely for individual fibers to spontaneously fire and produce a premature beat.
Side Effects
Common (10-35%): Nausea and vomiting. Less common (4-9%) photosensitivity and solardermititis, weakness and tremor, dizziness, numbness of extremities, constipation, loss of appetite, visual disturbances. Report any disturbances in vision to your physician immediately. A side effect also seen in the less common category is pulmonary fibrosis with chronic use periodic chest X-rays are recommended to avoid this reversible side effect.
Drug Interactions
Amiodarone will increase the blood levels and side effects of cyclosporin, digoxin, and coumadin (warfarin-like), anticoagulants, quinidine and procainamide.
Cautions and Contraindications
Sick sinus syndrome and sinus node dysfunction.
Usual Dose
Loading: 800-1600 mg/day After adequate control of the arrythmia has been achieved reduce the dose to 400-600 mg/day for maintenance.
Patient Medication Information
These information sheets do not list all known side effects of the medications, only the most common side effects. For a complete list of side effects please contact your local pharmacy or the actual drug manufacturing company.