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

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

The use of amiodarone can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of amiodarone use include:

• Nausea or upset stomach
  
• Vomiting
  
• Loss of appetite
  
• Constipation
  
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
  
• Tiredness or weakness
  
• Tremors or shaking
  
• Sleep disturbances
  
• Headache
  
  

More severe side effects of amiodarone use can include:

• Lung problems (such as cough, shortness of breath, chest pain)
  
• Liver problems (such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain)
  
• Thyroid problems (such as changes in weight, feeling cold or hot, neck swelling)
  
• Vision problems (such as blurred vision, sensitivity to light)
  
• Neurological problems (such as numbness, tingling, coordination difficulties)
  
• Skin reactions (such as rash, itching, sun sensitivity)
  
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
  
• Low blood pressure
  
• Mood changes or depression
  
• Hair loss or changes in hair color
  
• Erectile dysfunction or sexual difficulties
  
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight
  
  

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking amiodarone, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with amiodarone. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with amiodarone.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• Antibiotics
  
• Anticoagulants (blood thinners)
  
• Antidepressants
  
• Antifungal medications
  
• Antihypertensive medications
  
• Antipsychotic medications
  
• Antiseizure medications
  
• Beta-blockers
  
• Calcium channel blockers
  
• Digoxin
  
• Diuretics
  
• Warfarin
  
• Statin medication
  
• Thyroid medications
  
• Grapefruit juice or grapefruit products
  
  

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

• Lung or breathing problems
  
• Liver or kidney disease
  
• Thyroid problems
  
• Eye problems
  
• Heart disease or rhythm disorders
  
• Neurological disease or disorders
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using amiodarone to assess potential risks and benefits.

Take amiodarone exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not skip doses or stop the medication prematurely, even if you start feeling better.

Amiodarone should be taken with food to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.

Avoid excessive exposure to sunlight or tanning beds while taking amiodarone, as it can increase sensitivity to sunlight and lead to sunburn or skin damage.

Do not drink grapefruit juice or consume grapefruit products while taking amiodarone, as they can interact with the medication and increase the risk of side effects.

Store amiodarone at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.

In case of an amiodarone overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe dizziness, fainting, irregular heartbeat, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.