Amiodarone

Question 1

Amiodarone

Presentation

Answer 1

150mg in a 3ml ampoule.

Question 2

Amiodarone

Use

Answer 2

Cardiac Arrest with persistent/shock resistant Ventricular Fibrillation/pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia, post 3rd shock
(ANZCOR 2016).
Critical Care Paramedic only
Tachydysrhythmias including:
SVT
Nodal and Ventricular tachycardia
Atrial flutter and fibrillation
WPW syndrome
.

Question 3

Amiodarone

Type

Answer 3

Amiodarone has effects within the first four classes of the Vaughan-Williams classification. However it is primarily classified as a Class III antidysrhythmic agent that prolongs the action potential duration and hence the refractory period of atrial, nodal and ventricular tissue. It has characteristics of all Vaughan-Williams classes of antidysrhythmics.

Question 4

Amiodarone

Dose

Answer 4

Cardiac Arrest
Adult:

300mg in 6ml IV/IO once only
Paediatric / Infant:

5mg/kg IV/IO once only
.

Question 5

Amiodarone

Actions

Answer 5

Immediate onset, peak <10min, duration 30-60mins.

Question 6

Amiodarone

Contraindications

Answer 6

NO CONTRAINDICATIONS IN CARDIAC ARREST.

Question 7

Amiodarone

Adverse effects

Answer 7

Bradycardia
Hypotension
Polymorphic tachycardias
Nausea
Tremor
Dizziness
Paraesthesia
Headaches
.

Question 8

Amiodarone

Precautions

Answer 8

Heart failure
Thyroid dysfunction
Amiodarone is only indicated for shock resistant or recurrent VF / pulseless VT
.