Amiodarone

Question 1

What is the clinical condition /situation to which this PGD applies?

Answer 1

Adults with a stable and broad complex tachycardia with a regular rhythm which is thought to be ventricular tachycardia.

Question 2

What is the inclusion criteria?

Answer 2

Adults with a stable and broad complex tachycardia with a regular rhythm >0.12 seconds which is thought to be VT.

Primarily to be used in stable patients however it may be used cautiously in unstable patients where the EMRTS CCP is unable or not authorised for synchronised cardioversion. Top cover required.

If given three synchronised shocks for unstable VT and no resolution. Top cover.

Question 3

Exclusion criteria

Answer 3

Irregular rhythm ie. torsades de points

Circulatory collapse systolic <70 mmHg

Hypersensitivity to amiodarone, iodine or any other excipitents

Evidence or history of thyroid dysfunction

Sinus bradycardia or severe conduction disturbances e.g. high grade AV Block

Question 4

Cautions

Answer 4

Care should be taken to ensure that patient has adequate sedation

Care should be taken to adequately ET Tube.

Should not be mixed with NaCl 0.9

Question 5

Name the form and strength of medicine

Answer 5

Amiodarone 300mg in 10ml Injection

Amiodarone Hydrochloride 50mg per ml (3ml ampoule)

Question 6

Route / Method

Answer 6

Slow IV bolus

IV Infusion

IO Injection

Question 7

Dose and frequency

Answer 7

300mg over 15 - 20 minutes.

In compatible with NaCl and only be administered with 5% glucose