History

• Amiodarone was discovered in 1961 and approved by the FDA in 1985.
  
  

Mechanism of Action

• Amiodarone affects the electrical activity of the heart. Its vasodilative properties cause the blood vessels to enlarge, which lowers blood pressure.
  
  

Indications For Use

• Amiodarone treats arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, ventricular fibrillation and supraventricular tachyarrhythmias.
  
  

Drug Interactions

• Emmanuel Saltiel, PharmD and pharmacy author at medicinenet.com cautions against several drug interactions such as:
  
  Coumadin (warfarin)-Taking amiodarone with this blood thinner increases risk of bleeding and can be fatal.
  
  Statin drugs to lower cholesterol such as Zocor and Lipitor-This combination may cause kidney failure, liver disease and severe muscle breakdown.
  
  Beta blockers such as Inderal and Lopressor- May cause excessively slow heart rate.
  
  Amiodarone increases the blood levels of digoxin (Lanoxin). Digoxin dose should be reduced by 50 percent when starting amiodarone.
  
  

Patient Precautions

• Davis's Drug Guide for Nurses offers the following cautions for patients on amiodarone:
  
  Take as directed. If a dose is missed, do not take it. Call the health care provider if more than two doses are missed.
  
  Avoid grapefruit while on amiodarone.
  
  Photosensitivity may occur with sun exposure.
  
  Side effects may not appear until several days, weeks, or years later and may last several months.
  
  Bluish discoloration of the face, neck and arms may occur.
  
  Male patients should notify their health care provider if there is pain and swelling in the scrotum.
  
  Follow-up exams including chest x-rays, eye exams and pulmonary function tests should be taken as recommended by your health care provider.