How should I take amiodarone?
Take amiodarone exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. You will receive your first few doses in a hospital setting, where your heart rhythm can be monitored.
What happens if you overdose on amiodarone?
An overdose of amiodarone can be fatal. Overdose symptoms may include weakness, slow heart rate, feeling light-headed, or loss of consciousness. What should I avoid while taking amiodarone?
Is it safe to take amiodarone during pregnancy?
Do not use amiodarone if you are pregnant. Taking this medicine during pregnancy can harm the unborn baby or cause thyroid problems or abnormal heartbeats after the baby is born. Amiodarone may also affect the child’s growth or development (speech, movement, academic skills) later in life.
What should I avoid while taking amiodarone?
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how amiodarone will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired. Grapefruit may interact with amiodarone and lead to unwanted side effects. Avoid the use of grapefruit products. Avoid taking an herbal supplement containing St. John’s wort. Amiodarone could make you sunburn more easily.
How does amiodarone interact with other medications or foods?
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with amiodarone and lead to unwanted side effects. Avoid the use of grapefruit products while taking this medicine. Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Amiodarone can make you sunburn more easily.
How long does it take for amiodarone to work?
It may take up to 2 weeks before your heart rhythm improves. Keep using the medicine as directed even if you feel well. While using amiodarone, you will need frequent medical tests and chest x-rays to check your thyroid, vision, lungs, and liver function. Amiodarone can have long lasting effects on your body.
What is the generic name for amiodarone?
Generic name: amiodarone tablets (oral) (A mi OH da rone) Brand name: Pacerone Drug class: Group III antiarrhythmics. Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on May 18, 2021. Uses; Warnings; Dosage; What to avoid; Side effects; Interactions; What is amiodarone? Amiodarone affects the rhythm of your heartbeats.