Amioderone HCL (Cordarone®)

Question 1

Amioderone - Class

Answer 1

Antiarrhythmic agent

Question 2

Amioderone - Actions

Answer 2

• Prolongs action potential and refractory period in cardiac tissue
• Slows the sinus rate, and increases PR & QT intervals
• Decreases peripheral vascular resistance

Question 3

Amioderone - Indications

Answer 3

• VF/pulseless VT unresponsive to shock delivery, CPR, & vasopressors
• Recurrent hemodynamically unstable VT when cardioversion unsuccessful

Question 4

Amioderone - Dosage/Route

Answer 4

• VF/pulseless VT
• 300 mg IV/IO may repeat in 3-5 min with 150 mg
• Recurrent hemodynamically unstable VT
• 150 mg IV bolus over 10 min (15mg/min). May repeat in 10 min

Question 5

Amioderone - Side Effects

Answer 5

• HoTN
• Nausea
• Tremors
• Prolonged QT interval

Question 6

Amioderone - Contraindications

Answer 6

• Sinus bradycardia/sever sinus node dysfunction
• 2nd & 3rd degree AV blocks
• Known hypersensitivity to drug

Question 7

Amioderone - Special Information

Answer 7

• May have negative inotropic effects
• Do not admin with other drugs that prolong QT interval (eg. procainamide)
• Use caution in renal failure & pregnancy
• Multiple complex drug interactions

Question 8

Amioderone - Pediatric Note

Answer 8

• Refer to Pediatric Drug Guide
• VF/pulseless VT - 5 mg/kg rapid IV/IO bolus
• Max single dose = 300 mg