Amiodarone

Question 1

Describe the pharmacokinetics of amiodarone.

Answer 1

Well absorbed orally, High Vd, Long half-life (many days - weeks).
Hepatic metabolism.
Loading dose of 300mg IV over 30-60mins.

Question 2

Describe the adverse effects of amiodarone.

Answer 2

Acutely (short-term):
- Arrhythmia
- Heart block
- Bradycardia
- Hypotension
Chronically (long-term):
- Irreversible pulmonary fibrosis
- Photosensitivity
- Deranged LFTs
- Corneal deposits
- Thyroid dysfunction