Drug Name:Amiodarone
Drug Class:Class III antiarrhythmic
Mechanism of Action:
  • Blocks potassium channels, prolonging the action potential duration and refractory period
  • Blocks sodium and calcium channels, slowing conduction velocity
Use:
  • Treatment and prevention of ventricular arrhythmias
  • Treatment of atrial fibrillation and flutter
Side Effects:
  • Pulmonary toxicity
  • Hepatotoxicity
  • Thyroid dysfunction
  • Photosensitivity
  • Corneal microdeposits
  • Bradycardia
  • Hypotension
Contraindications:
  • Severe sinus node dysfunction
  • Second- or third-degree heart block
  • Cardiogenic shock
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Specialty:
  • Cardiology
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Critical Care