Amiodarone

Question 1

describe the absorption of amiodarone

Answer 1

1. poor bioavailability
2. absorption enhanced with food

Question 2

describe the distribution of amiodarone

Answer 2

1. widely distributed

Question 3

describe the metabolism of amiodarone

Answer 3

metabolised by CYP450, specifically CYP3A4
- hepatic

Question 4

describe the excretion of amiodarone

Answer 4

biliary excretion

Question 5

describe the MOA of amiodarone

Answer 5

1. class 3 antiarrhythmic
2. blocks K+ currents that cause repolarisation of the heart muscle during action potentials
3. increases duration of action potential
4. increases refractory period
5. reduces cell excitability

Question 6

what are the indications of amiodarone

Answer 6

1. treatment of arrhythmias
2. ventricular fibrillation

Question 7

what are the adverse effects of amiodarone

Answer 7

• hyperthyroidism
• respiratory disorders
• skin reactions

Question 8

give examples of interactions with amiodarone

Answer 8

• salbutamol
• verapamil

Question 9

what are the contraindications of amiodarone

Answer 9

• avoid in severe conduction disturbances
• iodine sensitivity
• sinus bradycardia
• thyroid dysfunction