amiodarone
Pronunciation: ah-MEE-oh-dah-rone
A class III antiarrhythmic medication used to treat life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias and atrial fibrillation.
Full Definition
Amiodarone is a potent antiarrhythmic agent primarily used in emergency cardiology for the treatment of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, including ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia that are refractory to defibrillation. It is also effective for rate and rhythm control in atrial fibrillation. The medication works through multiple mechanisms, including sodium, potassium, and calcium channel blockade, as well as alpha and beta-adrenergic antagonism. In emergency settings, it is typically administered intravenously with loading doses followed by continuous infusion. Amiodarone has numerous drug interactions and significant long-term side effects, requiring careful monitoring.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify dose and route; note potential for drug interactions in medication reconciliation.
In Context
- "Amiodarone 300 mg was administered for refractory ventricular fibrillation." — Cardiac arrest documentation
- "The patient was started on an amiodarone drip for rhythm control of atrial fibrillation." — ICU medication orders