Amiodarone hydrochloride is an antiarrhythmic drug used to treat various types of heart rhythm disorders. It works by blocking ion channels in heart cells, which helps control irregular or fast heartbeats.
Arrhythmia can cause sudden death. Therefore, it is very important to do the right treatment. To learn more about arrhythmia, you can read the article about arrhythmia.
Amiodarone hydrochloride is a benzofuran derivative and has various trade names such as Cordarone, Pacerone, and Nexterone. This drug is available in tablet and injection forms.
Benefits of Amiodarone Hydrochloride
Here are some of the benefits of Amiodarone hydrochloride:
1. Treating atrial fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is a heart rhythm disorder that can cause an irregular heartbeat. Amiodarone hydrochloride can help control the heartbeat and prevent more serious attacks.
2. Treating ventricular tachycardia
Ventricular tachycardia is a heart rhythm disorder that can cause a very fast heartbeat. If not treated promptly, this condition can lead to more serious heart problems. Amiodarone hydrochloride can help control the heartbeat and prevent more serious attacks.
3. Treating heart failure
Amiodarone hydrochloride can also treat patients with heart failure. This drug can help improve heart function and prevent more serious attacks.
4. Used in cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Amiodarone hydrochloride is also used in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, an emergency procedure performed on people with heart failure or other heart problems. It can help control the heart rate and prevent a more serious attack.
Amiodarone Hydrochloride Side Effects
The use of Amiodarone Hydrochloride can cause side effects depending on the condition of each user. Possible side effects are:
- Increased levels of SGOT and SGPT in the blood.
- Feeling very weak.
- Decreased appetite.
- Constipation.
- Low blood pressure.
- Headache.
- Hypothyroidism.
- Memory disorders.
- Sleep disorders.
- Sensitive to light
Amiodarone Hydrochloride Dosage
Here is some information about amiodarone hydrochloride dosage:
1. Dosage for atrial fibrillation
In the treatment of atrial fibrillation, the dose of amiodarone hydrochloride is usually started at 200-400 mg per day, given in divided doses for the first week or two of treatment. After that, the dose can be reduced to 100-200 mg per day.
2. Dosage for ventricular tachycardia
In the treatment of ventricular tachycardia, the dose of amiodarone hydrochloride is usually started at 800-1600 mg per day, given in divided doses for the first one or two weeks of treatment. Thereafter, the dose may be decreased to 600-800 mg per day.
3. Dosage for cardiopulmonary resuscitation
In cardiopulmonary resuscitation, amiodarone hydrochloride can be initiated by intravenous injection. The initial dose is 300 mg given by infusion over 20-60 minutes. If necessary, an additional dose of 150 mg is given by infusion after 3-5 minutes.
4. Dosage for patients with heart failure
In the treatment of patients with heart failure, the dose of amiodarone hydrochloride may vary depending on the patient’s condition. The dose usually starts at 200-400 mg per day and may be reduced to 100-200 mg per day after a few weeks.
How to Use Amiodarone Hydrochloride
The following are the rules for using the drug Amiodarone Hydrochloride:
- Read the instructions on the medicine packaging before using it.
- Follow the doctor’s advice.
- Consume before or after meals.
- People with stomach disease can take this medicine with meals.
- Do not increase, or decrease the dose, or extend the duration of use of the drug without the doctor’s permission.
- Use regularly at the same time every day.
- Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor.
- Store the medicine at cool room temperature.
- Keep away from direct sunlight and damp places.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not store in the refrigerator.
Cautions for Using Amiodarone Hydrochloride
Before taking this medicine, you should first discuss your previous medical history with your doctor, especially if you have the following conditions:
- Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding? Ask about the benefits and risks of using the drug in pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- Are taking other medications, including vitamins, supplements, and herbal products.
- This medication may reduce concentration levels. Therefore, avoid activities that require high focus after taking the medication.
- Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Doing so may contaminate the environment.
- Electrolyte imbalance.
- Liver dysfunction.
- Having cardiomyopathy, a heart muscle disorder that can lead to heart failure.
- Suffering from heart failure.
- A person who wears a pacemaker and defibrillator (ICD).
- Users of the drug will be more sensitive to sun exposure. In this condition, users may experience skin disorders.
- Avoid direct sunlight exposure while using the medication.
Pay attention to the use of Amiodarone Hydrochloride
Here are some precautions when using Amiodarone Hydrochloride:
1. Monitoring thyroid function
Amiodarone Hydrochloride may affect thyroid function and cause hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Patients should have regular thyroid function tests during treatment with Amiodarone Hydrochloride and inform their doctor if they experience symptoms such as fatigue, dry skin, or weight gain.
2. Risk of lung side effects
Amiodarone Hydrochloride use may increase the risk of side effects on the lungs, such as pneumonia or pulmonary fibrosis. If you experience symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain, consult a doctor immediately.
3. Interactions with other drugs
Amiodarone Hydrochloride may interact with other medications and increase the risk of side effects. It is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, or herbal supplements.
4. The right dosage
The recommended dose of Amiodarone Hydrochloride may vary depending on the type of heart rhythm disorder being treated, the patient’s age, weight, and health conditions. Patients should follow the dosage as recommended by their doctor and should not change the dosage without first consulting their doctor.
5. Risks of long-term use
Long-term use of Amiodarone Hydrochloride may increase the risk of side effects on the liver, skin, and eyes. Patients should have regular liver function tests, vision tests, and skin examinations during treatment with Amiodarone Hydrochloride.
6. Use in pregnant and lactating women
The use of Amiodarone Hydrochloride in pregnant and lactating women can affect the development of the fetus and baby. Pregnant and lactating women should consult a doctor before using this medicine.