Amiodarone Flashcards
How is amiodarone presented?
Pre-filled syringe containing 300mg in 10ml
When is amiodarone administered?
Cardiac arrest with shockable rhythm - if unresponsive to defibrillation administer amiodarone after the 3rd shock
When can an additional bolus of amiodarone be administered depending on age?
Unresponsive VF or pulseless VT following 5th shock
What three things does amiodarone do?
It’s an anti arrhythmic which lengthens cardiac action potential and therefore creates an effective refractory period prolonging the QT interval on an ECG
Blocks sodium ad potassium channels in cardiac muscle
Acts to stabilise and reduce electrical irritability of cardiac muscle
What are some contraindications of amiodarone?
None
What four side effects are there for amiodarone?
Bradycardia
Vasodilation causing hypotension
Bronchospasm
Arrhythmia - Torsades de pointes
Why should amiodarone be administered into the largest of available veins?
Extravasation can cause burns
What is the dose of amiodarone?
300mg in 10ml
What is the maximum dose of amiodarone?
450mg in 20ml
What is the repeat dose for amiodarone?
150mg in 10ml
