Amiodarone

Question 1

What is amiodarone?

Answer 1

Amiodarone (ampule 150mg/3mL) is an anti-arrhythmic which prolongs the duration of the action potential and therefore refractory period of the atrial, nodal and ventricular tissues.

Majority excreted via the liver & GI tract

Onset: 5 min
Duration: 30 min
Half-life: 14-110 days (with chronic dosing)

Question 2

Indications for amiodarone?

Answer 2

1. Cardiac arrest (adults only) if refractory to 3 x DCCS

Question 3

Contraindications for amiodarone?

Answer 3

1. Patients in cardiac arrest due to TCA OD

Question 4

Precautions for amiodarone?

Answer 4

Nil

Question 5

Side effects of amiodarone?

Answer 5

1. Hypotension
2. Bradycardia
3. Nausea/vomiting
4. Peripheral paraesthesia

Question 6

What is the dose for amiodarone for an adult in cardiac arrest?

Answer 6

300mg IV

Slow push over 1-2 minutes

Repeated once at 150 mg if refractory to 5 x DCCS