Amiodarone Hydrochloride

Generic Details

Generic Name

Amiodarone Hydrochloride

Other Names

  • Cordarone
  • Pacerone

Drug Class

  • Antiarrhythmic

Chemical Formula

C25H29I2NO3.HCl

Molecular Weight

681.77 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Blocks potassium, sodium, and calcium channels, prolonging action potential duration

Indications

  • Treatment of ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias

Common Dosage Forms

  • Oral tablets
  • Intravenous solution

Typical Dosage

  • 200-400 mg orally once or twice daily

Pediatric Dosage

  • Not established

Geriatric Dosage

  • Lower initial doses

Side Effects

  • Bradycardia
  • Corneal microdeposits
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Photosensitivity

Contraindications

  • Sinus node dysfunction
  • Bradycardia
  • Heart block

Pregnancy Category

  • D

Lactation Safety

  • L3 - Moderately safe

Drug Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Digoxin
  • Phenytoin

Overdose Symptoms

  • Hypotension
  • Bradycardia
  • Cardiac arrest

Antidote for Overdose

  • No specific antidote, supportive care

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Variable oral bioavailability
  • Distribution: Extensive distribution in adipose tissue and highly perfused organs
  • Metabolism: Hepatic metabolism via CYP3A4
  • Excretion: Primarily in feces

Precautions

  • Monitor thyroid function regularly
  • Regular eye exams for vision changes

Warnings

  • Potential for proarrhythmic effects
  • Pulmonary toxicity risk

Others