CORDARONE X 200 MG 10'S

About

Amiodarone is a potent antiarrhythmic drug classified as a Class III agent, primarily used for the treatment and prophylaxis of various ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias. It works by prolonging the cardiac action potential and refractory period in myocardial tissue, affecting sodium, potassium, and calcium channels, as well as alpha- and beta-adrenergic blocking properties. Its complex electrophysiological effects contribute to its broad spectrum of antiarrhythmic activity, making it effective for both acute and chronic management of life-threatening arrhythmias.

Due to its extensive tissue distribution and long half-life, amiodarone accumulates in various organs, leading to a delayed onset of action and a prolonged duration of effect, but also a significant potential for serious adverse effects. It is often reserved for arrhythmias unresponsive to other therapies or in patients with structural heart disease where other antiarrhythmics may be contraindicated. Regular monitoring of thyroid, liver, and lung function, as well as ophthalmic examinations, is essential during long-term therapy.

Uses

• Treatment of recurrent ventricular fibrillation and hemodynamically unstable ventricular tachycardia.
• Management of recurrent supraventricular arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation.
• Prophylaxis of arrhythmias in patients with structural heart disease.
• Conversion and maintenance of sinus rhythm in patients with atrial fibrillation.

Directions For Use

Take orally as directed by your physician, usually once daily. Dosage may vary significantly based on loading and maintenance phases.

Benefits

• Highly effective in controlling various severe arrhythmias.
• Broad spectrum of antiarrhythmic activity.
• Can be used in patients with structural heart disease.
• Prolonged duration of action allows for once-daily dosing.
• Reduces the frequency of life-threatening arrhythmias.
• May improve quality of life for patients with chronic arrhythmias.

Side Effects

• Pulmonary toxicity (e.g., interstitial lung disease)
• Thyroid dysfunction (hypo- or hyperthyroidism)
• Liver enzyme elevation or hepatitis
• Corneal microdeposits (usually asymptomatic)
• Photosensitivity (blue-gray skin discoloration)
• Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Nausea, vomiting, or constipation
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Tremor
• Ataxia
• Optic neuropathy (rare, but serious)

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate liver toxicity associated with amiodarone.
• Pregnancy - Contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential for fetal thyroid abnormalities and other adverse effects.
• Breastfeeding - Contraindicated during breastfeeding as it is excreted in breast milk and can cause serious adverse effects in the infant.
• Liver - Use with extreme caution in patients with liver disease; monitor liver function tests regularly.
• Kidney - Generally does not require dose adjustment in renal impairment, but monitor for potential accumulation of metabolites.
• Lung - Contraindicated in patients with severe lung disease due to high risk of pulmonary toxicity; monitor lung function closely.

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