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Review
. 2019 Oct;42(5):158-162.
doi: 10.18773/austprescr.2019.051. Epub 2019 Oct 1.

Amiodarone in the aged

Meera Srinivasan  1   2   3 , Laura Ahmad  1   2   3 , Ravinay Bhindi  1   2   3 , Usaid Allahwala  1   2   3
Affiliations
Review

Amiodarone in the aged

Meera Srinivasan et al. Aust Prescr. 2019 Oct.

Abstract

Amiodarone is a highly effective antiarrhythmic drug, but can have serious adverse effects, particularly in older patients. If possible it should not be used purely for controlling the heart rate If a prescription for amiodarone is contemplated, particularly for an older patient, consult a cardiologist. Avoid amiodarone in patients with significant conduction system disease, significant liver or pulmonary disease, or hyperthyroidism Regular monitoring of the patient, clinically and biochemically, is required to identify complications at an early, treatable stage. Maintain a high level of suspicion if a patient taking amiodarone is experiencing adverse reactions and presents with new symptoms Consider potential drug interactions when other drugs are prescribed with amiodarone. The effects and toxicities of amiodarone may persist weeks after it is stopped

Keywords: amiodarone; antiarrhythmic drugs; arrhythmia; atrial fibrillation.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of interest: none declared

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