Common Use

Cordarone is an antiarrhythmic medication used to treat and correct abnormal heart rhythms, including life-threatening conditions like persistent ventricular fibrillation or tachycardia. It works by regulating the heart's rhythm and blocking specific electrical signals that cause irregular heartbeats. While some effects may be noticeable within three days of starting treatment, it typically takes one to three weeks for the full benefits to be observed.

Dosage and Direction

Initial doses of amiodarone are often administered in a hospital setting to monitor for serious side effects. The recommended starting dose for adults is 800 mg to 1,600 mg daily, divided into multiple doses, for the first one to three weeks. The dose is later reduced to 200 mg to 400 mg daily as prescribed. Take Cordarone by mouth once or twice daily, with or without food, and with a full glass of water. Maintain a consistent method of taking the medication with every dose. Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice unless advised by your doctor, as it can increase the medication's levels in the bloodstream. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully, and do not exceed prescribed dosages or durations.

Precautions

When starting Cordarone, hospitalization may be required for close monitoring. The drug can take two weeks or longer to take effect and remains in the body for weeks to months, even after discontinuation. Serious side effects may also appear weeks or months later. Inform your doctor of any allergies, especially to Cordarone, iodine, or other substances. Share your medical history with your healthcare provider. Limit alcohol consumption and avoid prolonged sun exposure by using sunscreen and protective clothing. Notify all healthcare providers about your medications before undergoing surgery.

Contraindications

Cordarone is not recommended for individuals with very low heart rates, cardiogenic shock, second or third-degree AV block (without a pacemaker), hepatitis, thyroid disease, certain lung abnormalities, or allergies to amiodarone, its ingredients, or iodine. Inform your doctor if you have asthma, liver disease, vision problems, high or low blood pressure, thyroid disorders, electrolyte imbalances, or a pacemaker or defibrillator. Dose adjustments or special tests may be necessary.

Possible Side Effects

Serious side effects may include lung or liver problems. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, persistent nausea or vomiting, dark urine, severe stomach pain, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. Allergic reactions like hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat require emergency medical help. Less severe side effects may include dizziness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, constipation, loss of appetite, insomnia, weakness, or skin redness.

Drug Interactions

Cordarone may interact with medications such as atenolol, propranolol, metoprolol, digoxin, verapamil, or diltiazem, potentially causing an excessively slow heart rate or conduction block. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of any medication. Provide a complete list of all medications you are using to your healthcare provider.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take extra medication to make up for the missed dose.

Overdose

Symptoms of an overdose may include weakness, slow heart rate, light-headedness, or fainting. Seek emergency medical help immediately if you suspect an overdose.

Storage

Store Cordarone at room temperature (68-77°F or 20-25°C), away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed. Dispose of expired or unused medication properly.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of Cordarone and does not include all directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from the use of this information or self-treatment practices.