Amiodarone

Question 1

Half life of amiodarone

Answer 1

Long half life so it takes weeks to achieve a steady state concentration

Question 2

Side effects of amiodarone

Answer 2

1) Corneal microdeposits -reversible once stopped. Optic neuritis, optic neuropathy and vision disturbances during = should be stopped

2) Thyroid - Hyper/hypo. Hypo can be treated without stopping amiodarone

3) Hepatoxicity - Report yellow skin, darken urine, pale skin

4) Pulmonary toxicity - Report SOB/cough

5) Grey Skin discolouration

Question 3

Monitoring requirements of amiodarone

Answer 3

Start of treatment: LFT, Thyroid, Potassium levels, Vision checked

6 monthly: LFT, thyroid

Question 4

Amiodarone interactions

Answer 4

• Increases risk of digoxin toxicity
• Increased risk of bradycardia
• Causes hypokalaemia
• Prolongs QT interval

Question 5

Is it used for rate or rhythm control

Answer 5

Rhythm control: Amiodarone is used as a rhythm control agent in AF, meaning it helps to restore and maintain normal sinus rhythm. It is a class III antiarrhythmic that works by prolonging the action potential and refractory period, preventing abnormal electrical activity in the heart.