amiodarone Flashcards
tell about amiodarone
-Amiodarone is a benzofuran derivative that can be used in the treatment of both ventricular and supraventricular tachyarrhythmias, as well as in the treatment of Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome.
- It acts by blocking potassium channels, prolonging repolarization and thus increasing the duration of the action potential.
-It is a Vaughan–Williams class III anti-arrhythmic agent.
-Amiodarone is given either by intravenous infusion or in tablet form.
-It is associated with a large number of side effects including:
* Raised serum transaminases and jaundice
* Hypo- and hyperthyroidism due to the prevention of peripheral conversion of
T3 to T4
* Pneumonitis and fibrotic lung disease
* Photosensitivity and corneal micro deposits
* Tremor
-Bradycardia and prolongation of QT interval
-Liver and thyroid function tests should be performed prior to commencement of treatment and every 6 months thereafter, and a chest X-ray should also be performed before starting treatment as a baseline.
