Amiodarone/ Cordarone/ Pacerone

Question 1

Amiodarone Class

Answer 1

Class III antidysrhythmic

Question 2

Amiodarone Action

Answer 2

• Affects Na+, K+, and Ca++ channels
• Has Alpha and Beta adrenergic blocking properties
• Possesses vagolytic and CCB porperties
• Negative dromotrope, chronotrope, and vasodilator

Question 3

Amiodarone Indications

Answer 3

• Pulseless VT/ VF

* VT with a pulse

Question 4

Amiodarone Contraindications

Answer 4

• Pulmonary Congestion
• Cardiogenic Shock
• Amiodarone Sensitivity
• Bradycardia
• Procainamide use
• TCA Overdose

Question 5

Amiodarone Precautions

Answer 5

• Hypotension
• Heart failure
• Long QT syndrome

Question 6

Amiodarone Dosage

Answer 6

Adults: Pulse-less VT/VF= 300 mg IV/IO repeat dose of 150 mg after 3-5 min.
With a pulse= 150 mg in 100 mL over 10 min.

Peds: Pulse-less VT/VF= 5 mg/kg IV/IO. May repeat doses up to 15 mg/kg (max dose of 300 mg).
With a pulse= 5 mg/kg IV/IO over 20-60 min. May repeat does up to 15 mg/kg (max dose of 300 mg)

Question 7

Amiodarone Side Effects

Answer 7

• Hypotension
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Bradycardia
• AV nodal conduction abnormalities
• QT prolongation
• Flushing
• Salivation

Question 8

Amiodarone Interactions

Answer 8

• Potentiates bradycardia and hypotension with CCB and BB
• Increases risk of AV nodal blockade with CCB
• May increase anticoagulation effects of Warfarin.
• May increase serum levels of Phenytion, Procainamide,
Quinidine, and Theophylines.
• Should not be used with other medications which prolong the QT interval.
• Should not run through the same IV line in which Sodium Bicarb or Furosemide have been used.

Question 9

Amiodarone Precautions

Answer 9

• Rapid infusion may lead to hypotension.

* half-life lasts up to 40 days