Amiodarone

Question 0

Mechanism of Action

Answer 0

Multiple effects on sodium, calcium and potassium channels
Prolongs action potential, refractory period
Ventricular Automaticity (potassium channel blockade)
Slows membrane depolarization and impulse conduction (Na channel blockade)
Negative chronotropic activity in nodal tissue, rate reduction, and antisympathetic activity (calcium channel blockade)
Dilates coronary arteries due to calcium channel and alpha-adrenergic blocking action

Question 1

Brand Name

Answer 1

Cordarone

Question 2

Indications for Use

Answer 2

Treatment of: Defibrillation-refractory VF/pulseless VT;polymorphic VT; and wide complex tachycardia of uncertain origin
Control hemodynamically stable ventricular tachycardia when cardioversion unsuccessful
Adjunct to cardioversion of SVT and PSVT

Question 3

Contraindications

Answer 3

Bradycardia, 2nd or 3rd degree AV blocks, Cardiogenic Shock, Hypotension, Pulmonary Congestion

Question 4

Class

Answer 4

Antiarrhythmic

Question 5

Incompatibilites/Drug Interactions

Answer 5

Beta Blockers, Ca Channel Blockers, and other antiarrhythmics are additive due to similar MoA

Question 6

Adult Dosage

Answer 6

VF/Pulseless VT: 300mg IVP over 30-60 seconds, MR in 3-5 min with 150mg IVP

Wide Complex Tachycardia, A FIB, A Flutter, SVT with Cardioversion: 105mg IV over 10min (mix in 50cc bag of D5W) MR every 10 min

Question 7

Route of Administration, Duration of Action, Dosage Forms/Packaging

Answer 7

IV/IO bolus & IV/IO infusion, Half life 54 days, 150mg/3mL, 450mg/9mL, 900 mg/18mL vials/ampules/syringes