amiodarone – oral, Cordarone, Pacerone
WARNING: This medication may worsen an irregular heartbeat or cause serious side effects. Your doctor may monitor you in the hospital when you start taking this drug. Amiodarone may take time to have an effect and can remain in your body for weeks to months after you stop taking it. Serious side effects like lung or liver problems may occur during this time. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, nausea/vomiting, dark urine, severe abdominal pain, or yellowing eyes/skin.
USES: Amiodarone is used to treat serious irregular heartbeats. It works by blocking certain electrical signals in the heart.
HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided before starting amiodarone. Take this medication by mouth, usually once or twice daily. You may take it with or without food, but ensure you take it the same way with every dose. Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice while using this medication. The dosage is based on your medical condition. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Do not stop or change the dose without consulting your doctor. Seek medical attention if your condition does not improve or worsens.
SIDE EFFECTS: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, loss of appetite, shaking, and fatigue. Serious side effects like uncontrolled movements, coordination problems, new or worsening symptoms of heart failure, faster/slower heartbeat, severe dizziness, and vision changes are rare. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur. This medication may cause skin sensitivity to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Consult your doctor for more information. This medication may interact with other drugs. Keep a list of all the products you use and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
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OVERDOSE: Contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately if overdose is suspected. Symptoms may include weakness, severe dizziness, slow heartbeat, and fainting.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Regular medical tests should be performed to monitor your progress.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual schedule. Do not double the dose.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep all medicines away from children and pets. Dispose of expired or unused medication properly.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
Report negative side effects to the FDA via their MedWatch website or by calling 1-800-FDA-1088.
This information is intended to supplement the expertise of healthcare professionals. It does not cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. Consult a healthcare professional before taking any drug or changing your treatment.
