Cardiovascular (Anti-Arrhythmic Drugs)

Question 1

Examples of drug (Anti-Arrhythmic Drugs)

Answer 1

• Amiodarone

Question 2

Mechanism of action (Anti-Arrhythmic Drugs)

Answer 2

• Amiodarone blocks cardiac K+ channels, prolonging repolarization of the cardiac action potential.
• Restores regular sinus rhythm.
• It also slows atrioventricular nodal conduction.

Question 3

Indications (Anti-Arrhythmic Drugs)

Answer 3

-

Supraventricular/ventricular arrhythmias.

Question 4

Side-effects (Anti-Arrhythmic Drugs)

Answer 4

• Photosensitivity skin reactions (up to 75% of patients)
• Hypersensitivity reactions
• Hyper/Hypothyroidism (linked to high iodine content)
• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Corneal deposits (69-100% of patients)
• Neurological disturbances
• GI disturbances/Hepatitis

Question 5

Important pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (Anti-Arrhythmic Drugs)

Answer 5

• Very long half-life, once daily dosing, can take weeks-months to achieve steady-state amiodarone-plasma concentrations.
• Thyroid function tests should be performed before treatment and every six months, or where symptomatic.
• LFTs should be taken during treatment.

Question 6

Patient information (Anti-Arrhythmic Drugs)

Answer 6

• Requires good compliance and attendance for monitoring blood tests.
• Avoid exposure to the sun, wear protective clothing and sunscreen.
• Report presence of rash after use – hypersensitivity risk.