Amiodarone

Uses

Amiodarone is used in the treatment of arrhythmia.

How it Works

How Amiodarone Works Amiodarone is an anti-arrhythmic medication that regulates the heartbeat by blocking abnormal electrical signals in the heart.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Amiodarone include nausea, constipation, slow heart rate, changes in taste, eczema, decreased levels of thyroid hormones, vomiting, corneal microdeposits, photosensitivity, decreased libido, insomnia, hyperthyroidism, increased liver transaminases, jaundice, liver failure, extrapyramidal symptoms, nightmares, pulmonary toxicity, and skin pigmentation.

Expert Advice

Amiodarone may cause blurring of vision. Avoid driving or any activity requiring focus until you understand how it affects you.
It increases your skin's sensitivity to sunlight. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.
Your doctor may perform regular blood tests, chest X-rays, ECG, eye tests, and thyroid, liver, and lung function tests while you are taking this medication.
Notify your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Breathlessness
- Persistent cough
- Jaundice
- Restlessness
- Weight loss or gain
- Eye problems
Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, as Amiodarone can interact with many drugs.
Notify your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Other Combinations

Frequently asked questions

Is Amiodarone safe?

Amiodarone is generally considered safe when taken as prescribed by a doctor. While it may cause temporary side effects, these usually resolve on their own, and your doctor can provide strategies to manage them.

What does Amiodarone do to the heart?

Amiodarone helps restore normal heart rhythm by blocking certain electrical signals that cause irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), thereby maintaining a steady heartbeat.

Does Amiodarone affect blood pressure?

Oral Amiodarone typically does not affect blood pressure; however, intravenous administration may lower it. To mitigate this risk, healthcare providers may administer the drug slowly and prescribe vasopressor agents to stabilize blood pressure.

What kind of vision problems occur with Amiodarone?

Amiodarone may cause blurred vision, halos around lights, dry eyes, and sensitivity to light. In severe cases, it can lead to permanent blindness. Consult your doctor if you notice any vision changes while taking Amiodarone.

What are the warning signals of liver toxicity caused by Amiodarone?

Signs of liver toxicity from Amiodarone include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dark urine, pale stools, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and fever. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

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