AMIODARONE (C) (Dec 2013)

Question 1

TYPE:

Answer 1

Potent anti-arrhythmic agent [S4]

Question 2

PRESENTATION:

Answer 2

Ampoule 150 mg/3ml

Question 3

ACTIONS:

Answer 3

Complex electrophysiological & pharmacological profile:
1. Prolongs the action potential duration; increases the
refractoriness of all cardiac tissue
2. Also blocks Na+ channels (Class I action)
3. Has some anti-adrenergic effects (Class II action)
Ca2+ blockade (Class IV)
4. Prolongs QT interval – reflects global prolongation of
repolarisation
5. When given IV, there is a significant effect on the AV
node which causes a delay in nodal conduction
6. Also effective for accessory pathway conduction

Question 4

USE:

Answer 4

Effective for both supraventricular & ventricular arrhythmias ACTAS USE: − to slow ventricular rate in AF and AFl
− to treat VT & VF

Question 5

ADVERSE EFFECTS:

Answer 5

IV: can cause vasodilatation & negative inotropic effects; hypotension. (dose & rate dependent)
Occasionally may cause:
1. Bradycardia ( especially in older pts)
2. Phlebitis
3. Hot flushes / sweating

Question 6

CONTRA-INDICATIONS:

Answer 6

Known hypersensitivity

Cross sensitivity to Iodine

Question 7

DOSE:

Answer 7

VF/VT Cardiac Arrest:
Adult: 300 mg IV push dose (over 30 – 60 seconds)
Paediatric: 5 mg/kg IV
VT, AF and AFl with Cardiac Output:
Adult: 150 mg IV via Springfuser (over 10 minutes, approx 7 ml)
Paediatric: 5 mg/kg IV
(VT - If extremely compromised, may be given over 5 mins by slow IV injection)
No repeat doses for either treatment regimen

Question 8

SPECIAL NOTE:

Answer 8

Significant potential drug interactions:
The following may potentiate the actions of Amiodarone:
Digoxin; Phenytoin (Dilantin); β Blockers; Ca2+ Channel Blockers; & other anti-arrhythmics.