Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 4/28/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

• Brand Name: Cordarone, Pacerone
  
• Generic Name: Amiodarone
  
• Uses: Treating certain types of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), including atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia
  
• Drug Class: Antiarrhythmic
  
• Availability: Prescription only
  
• Generic Status: Yes
  
• Controlled Substance: No
  
  

Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic medication used to treat various irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) including ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia (VT). It works by affecting the electrical activity in the heart to help maintain a regular heartbeat.

Amiodarone is used to treat various types of arrhythmias. Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that can pose life-threatening complications.

Amiodarone works by affecting the electrical signals in the heart, specifically targeting abnormal rhythms and helping to restore a normal heartbeat. It belongs to the class III antiarrhythmic agents and has multiple mechanisms of action that contribute to its effectiveness in managing arrhythmias.

Amiodarone is usually taken orally with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the type and severity of the arrhythmia.

Amiodarone can be taken with food if it helps prevent an upset stomach, dosage should be consistent: either always take amiodarone with food or always without.

Follow the prescribed dosage and schedule strictly. Do not stop taking amiodarone suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider, as it may lead to worsening arrhythmias or other complications.

The time it takes to see improvements in arrhythmias can vary depending on the type of arrhythmia, its severity, and individual response to treatment. Some patients may experience improvements relatively quickly, while others may require longer periods to achieve stable heart rhythms.

Continue taking amiodarone as prescribed even if you feel better. Abruptly stopping the medication can result in the recurrence of arrhythmias.

While amiodarone is primarily used for treating arrhythmias, healthcare providers may sometimes prescribe it off-label for other heart-related conditions or purposes, such as:

• Treatment for atrial fibrillation (AFib)
  
• Prevention of certain types of arrhythmias in high-risk individuals
  
• Management of specific heart conditions in combination with other medications
  
• Investigational use in certain cases not covered by approved indications
  
  

Discuss any alternative uses of amiodarone with your healthcare provider.

Amiodarone is available in the following dosage forms:

• Oral tablets: Available in various strengths (e.g., 100mg, 200mg, 400mg)
  
• Intravenous (IV) solutions: For rapid control of arrhythmias or when oral administration is not feasible
  
  

Generic versions of amiodarone are available under various brand names.

Amiodarone is a prescription medication. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain this medication.