Amiodarone is a medication that prevents and treats arrhythmia. This is a condition that causes a fast or irregular heartbeat. It slows down overactive electric signals in your heart. This stabilizes your heart’s rhythm. Brand names of this medication are Cordarone® and Pacerone®.
AMIODARONE (a MEE oh da rone) prevents and treats a fast or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). It works by slowing down overactive electric signals in the heart, which stabilizes your heart rhythm. It belongs to a group of medications called antiarrhythmics.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Cordarone, Pacerone
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They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Take this medication by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take this medication with or without food. However, you should always take it the same way each time. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medication more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your care team.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your care team regarding the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
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If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Do not take this medication with any of the following:
This medication may also interact with the following:
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
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Your condition will be monitored closely when you first begin therapy. Often, this medication is first started in a hospital or other monitored health care setting. Once you are on maintenance therapy, visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Because your condition and use of this medication carry some risk, it is a good idea to carry an identification card, necklace or bracelet with details of your condition, medications, and care team.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.
This medication can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
You should have regular eye exams before and during treatment. Call your care team if you have blurred vision, see halos, or your eyes become sensitive to light. Your eyes may get dry. It may be helpful to use a lubricating eye solution or artificial tears solution.
If you are going to have surgery or a procedure that requires contrast dyes, tell your care team that you are taking this medication.
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Copyright ©2024 Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.
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