Emergency Drugs · Class III antiarrhythmic
Amiodarone
Dose
Arrest: 300 mg IV bolus. Stable: 300 mg over 20–60 min, then 900 mg/24 h.
Mechanism
Blocks K⁺ channels → prolongs APD/QT; also Na⁺, Ca²⁺, β-block
Dilution & preparation
300 mg in 250 mL D5W (NOT saline); use central line for long infusions
Use
Shock-refractory VF/VT, AF rate/rhythm, broad-complex tachy.
Monitoring
ECG (QTc), TFTs, LFTs, CXR 6-monthly long-term.
Side effects
- • Pulmonary fibrosis
- • Thyroid dysfunction
- • Hepatotoxicity
- • Corneal deposits
- • Photosensitivity
- • Bradycardia
Always confirm dose against your local formulary / BNF before prescribing.
