Re: Amiodarone

[Guest guest]

hi all,

i started on amiodarone a year and a half ago with a 200 mg dosage twice a

day.....now im taking 200 mgs once a day...

docs are considering taking me off as ive had no incidents since march of

last year... apparantly my icd has had to do nothing but a few moments of

pacing in that entire time.....guess im pretty lucky in that respect..

i have blue splotches on my chest, (turning into a smurf....shawn, will ya

still love me if i turn blue) , i have some vision problems at

night.....when driving at night cars coming towards me have a bright halo

around each headlight.....doesnt see to affect me any but it is

noticeable.....of course the sensitvity to the sun is standard,,,,,i tan

very easily and very seldom burn but i have burned several times this year....

bob in pa

[Guest guest]

hi becca,

amiodarone is an anti-arrythmic,,,,,,in my case i have v tach,,,,and it is

supposed to stop that from occurring.....

im so scared that if i stop taking the med ill be zapped.... but i have to

take the chance cause it is a nasty dangerous medicine.......

bob in pa

At 03:58 PM 8/9/2002 -0700, you wrote:

>Tom,

>What sort of drug is Amiodarone?

>Becca

>--- Tom Greenholt <tgreenho@...> wrote:

> > Sue,

> >

> > I have been on Amiodarone since November, 1997

> > in various dosages. From

> > the get go I had one major side effect and that

> > was the micro deposits on

> > the corneas. I am so used to them now that I

> > don't even notice the

> > difference in vision. I also briefly developed

> > a thyroid thingy, but that

> > actually cleared up on its own - in time.

> >

> > For a long time, I was on amiodarone 400 mg a

> > day. Actually that is when I

> > felt the best. Now I take the drug 4 days at

> > 200 mg and 3 days at 400

> > mg. Most doctors want their patients to be on

> > as little of the drug as

> > possible. I think this is because of the

> > possibility of being on the drug

> > for a very long period of time.

> >

> > I think Rich (I assume your husband) will be

> > just fine. Everyone reacts

> > differently to the drug and just have faith in

> > your docs. They usually

> > watch things pretty close.

> >

> > Hello to everyone else. When my job permits, I

> > will be more active on the

> > list.

> >

> > Have a wonderful weekend.

> >

> >

> >

>

>

>__________________________________________________

>

[Guest guest]

Hey Sue;

Last year i was put on the amiodrone 600 mg's a day for 2 mos then 400 for

two mos then still am on 300 mg's a day which my docs are thinking about

reducing it to 200. Except the vision deterioration(i am not sure if it is

because of my age 41) I have no problem with it. Keep faith honey. My

prayers and thoughts are wwith you. Love TURK

>From: Sue Owens <susie77@...>

>Reply-

>Zap List < >

>Subject: Amiodarone

>Date: Fri, 09 Aug 2002 16:56:56 -0500

>

>Hey all...

> Rich just went to the EP doc. Getting worse n worse, of

>course. She just prescribed 400 mg./day (in 2 doses). Gimme

>yer opinions on this, please. I've read plenty of horror stories,

>but didn't save them..... let me have it straight and true, please.

>How this med. has affected YOU.

>Thanks.

> Sue

>

>--

> " She was not quite what you would call refined.

>She was not quite what you would call unrefined.

>She was the kind of person that keeps a parrot. "

>-- Mark Twain

>

>Rich and Sue Owens

>http://www.geocities.com/Yosemite/Meadows/7457/index3.html

>http://www.nothnbut.net/~reo77/aurora.html

>

>

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[Guest guest]

My goodness is that what these stupid headache's are from. They've been

killing me. Thanks honey ill tell my doc. Love TURK

>From: hartofgold1a@...

>Reply-

>

>Subject: Re: Amiodarone

>Date: Fri, 9 Aug 2002 20:57:59 EDT

>

>Bob...i love blue!!! I think it would bring out your eyes...besides, I have

>been taking amiodarone for almost 6 years...and not a tinge of grey/blue,

>yet! I agree with you Bob..the lights at night and the sun reaction are

>the

>biggest changes I have noticed. Because of the extreme light sensitivity to

>my eyes I am prone to migraines...which I take two medications daily

>for...but I have heard that not everyone has such a reaction. Sue...Rich

>may

>have all or none of these reactions...just keep the Docs posted on how he

>is

>getting along!

>

_________________________________________________________________

Chat with friends online, try MSN Messenger: http://messenger.msn.com

[Guest guest]

>

> So my question is; " has anybody else had these large doses of Amio

> and if so did they have a lingering effect? Is it reasonable to

> suspect Amio for the tiredness in my case?

> I have been told that tiredness, especially in my case and at this

> remove is unreasonable but have any others of you had an extended

> period of such fatigue after an MI?

I did not have Amio BUT, I had an MI in 1998. I started having

severe problems with fatigue late last fall and started having

swelling problems in February. I had developed a HUGE aneurysm at

the site of the MI. It's not common, 25% or so of MI sufferers

develope one and most are not as big as mine. But that coupled with

a leaking Mitral Valve (which was pulled out of shape by aneurysm)

caused me to lose my energy fast.

I had had several Echos and even a transesophageal echo and they

didn't see the aneurysm. It was found during a heart cath to assess

the Mitral leakage.

I cannot tell you how much better I feel no. I had surgery in July

to correct both problems. About three weeks ago, I started feeling

great. I realized that my chest no longer hurt when I walked and I

can actual go UP steps now! Lots of them!

I doubt that this has any bearing on your problem, but thought I'd

throw it out in case it does. I hope you find your solution soon.

Bridget

[Guest guest]

>

> I cannot tell you how much better I feel no. I had surgery in

July

> to correct both problems. About three weeks ago, I started

feeling

> great. I realized that my chest no longer hurt when I walked and

I

> can actual go UP steps now! Lots of them!

>

> I doubt that this has any bearing on your problem, but thought I'd

> throw it out in case it does. I hope you find your solution soon.

>

> Bridget

Thanks for the info Bridget / Guin.

I was treated very quickly for the MI there should be no cardiac

issues. I had two unscheduled checkups 6 - 8 weeks or so ago to

deal with the tiredness question. My cardiac function, lungs,

thyroid and various other bits are all fine so there is no logical

reason for the tiredness. For instance, in the morning when

refreshed, I can and sometimes do walk for 7 or 8 miles. In the

evening, by say 6.30, whether I have walked or not, I need to go to

bed for 2 hours.

I am not on Amio now. I was administered the drug intravenously for

6 days in July 2003 and I know that was both more drug and for

longer than is recommended. Thats not the issue - I reckon it is

what kept me alive - believe me, things were very dodgy.

Given its half life of 100 days, I reckon that I still had one

sixteenth of the total amount of drug administered still in my body

when it got warm and my problems started is that calculation correct

I wonder?

I suspec the Amio - there doesn't seem much else left to blame. I

think I will just keep watch for now, try to de-stress as much as I

can and see what happens.

BTW we do not call California heat " hot " where I come from, it is

closer to awesome! Im talking 21 Degrees in this part of the world

(70 Ish Farenheit)

[Guest guest]

`hi everybody,,

i was in the hospital last week for four days due to a blood clot in

the back of my left thigh..

now i find myself on 5 mgs of coumdadin (warfarin), 100 mgs of coreg, and

400 mgs of amiodarone.

my primary physician turned me loose to walk as much as i can as of

yesterday but i find myself so tired and drained i barely get 500 or 600

feet a day..

im sure hoping i didnt go through all the pain associated with these new

hips just to have other troubles start to plague me. im thinking

exercise is my answer and cant do it yet..

i called the cardio the other day (who also doubles as the electro

and just implanted a dual chamber medtronic about 5 weeks ago) and asked

about the high doses of amio and coreg and could they be causing the

fatigue... apparantly this doctor does not believe in calling

his patients when they have questions as ive not heard from him....

damn!!!!!

bobby in missippi

[Guest guest]

Hey Bobby,

Here is an idea for you to try... You can always ask the Pharmacist

at the Pharmacy that you get your prescription's at..They are good

with Questions... AND they like to help people...I have learned that

cuz my doctor does not believe in calling his patients back when they

have questions eather...My Pharmacist at CVS has been real helpfull

with all my dumb Questions that I have had in the past year...

I hope this helped

>

> > * `hi everybody,,

> i was in the hospital last week for four days due to a blood clot in

the

> back of my left thigh..

[Guest guest]

This was in my newspaper this week:

FDA heart drug warning overdue

Advisory will list deadly effects of oft-prescribed amiodarone --

approved only as a last resort drug

By Alison Young

Knight Ridder Newspapers

WASHINGTON - A highly toxic heart drug continues to be prescribed to

millions of patients nationwide without the detailed consumer

warnings promised by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration more than

a year ago.

You can read the rest here:

http://www.ohio.com/mld/ohio/news/nation/10260993.htm

Bridget

> Anyone who has questions about Amiodarone can refer to the

following

> website:

>

> http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/amiodarone.htm

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Thanks

[Guest guest]

Hi ;

I just want to caution you on the side affects of the amiodarone drug that you are on. The side affects are horrific and can cause death. Please check into this, this is a last resort drug and should not be used long term, unless everything else has been tried and you have been informed of the drug. I speak from experience. You sound too young to be on it long term.

Good luck, guin

Re: EP appointment

Hi ,I know how you feel. I just got my icd in january and have had 2 runsof VT shocked by both. I also have been paced out of several. I just gotout of a 7 day stay in the hospital and now am on ambioteroian? Whenyou got your shock didnt you know it? I passed out once and the secondtime I felt like a horse kicked me in the chest.Have you had your ICD long. Would love to hear..take care >> It just keeps getting better and better.>> 78 episodes of non sustained VT (since 3/14)> 5 paced out of VT episodes> 1 shock (which we knew about)>> Guess it's a good thing I got the ICD.>> No exercise for right now then I will start cardiac rehab when this> "irritibility" is better. No ablation for now, she wants to treat thiswith> drugs which I am all for. I will be admitted to the hospital 4/23 tostart> on Sotolol and I will also be seen by the heart failure and transplantteam> (my appointment was 5/7 to see them anyway). She says that incessant> ventricular arrythimas are an indicator for transplant but this is not> incessant and there are options for treatment.>> And I'm ok. Because we have a plan.>> >

[Guest guest]

I apoligize if this post does not fit the Iodine site.

I had A-fib and almost died during the episode. Thankfully the

paramedics arrived very fast. I started on Armour after 2 years of

begging to be on it and now at 4 1/2 grains and have very few A-fib

episodes. All the other hypo symptoms are " almost " gone as well. I

was very ill on synthroid products.

I don't know about the other medication she is on but might try that?

If she is willing. Armour will make a HUGE difference, even the 1st

day. I had a " brain " buzz all the 1st day and had my 1st nights sleep

in a long time that day. I have continued to improve as the medicine

was increased. Best of luck on what you can do for her. Melody

On Sat, May 2, 2009 at 1:04 PM, williamw1852 <cicerosc@...> wrote:

> I have an 86 year old relative who has had difficult atrial fibrillation

problems in the past.  Her heart doctor (not the one who originally prescribed

it) recently took her off amiodarone out of concern that it was " interfering

with her thyroid medication " (which is synthroid -- she has continued throughout

the treatment to show significant hypothyroid symptoms in terms of energy level,

hair loss, very cold-natured, etc.)

>

> My question is this:  it is unlikely that she will be willing to take

significant iodine supplements on her own, so I am wondering whether to

encourage her to try to get her doctor to put her back on amiodarone (on the

theory that the amiodarone version of iodine is better than no iodine) or just

go without iodine supplementation, since the establishment literature seems to

be so skiddish about amiodarone side effects (so far as I can tell she has had

no side effects and was doing well on amiodarone from the heart standpoint.

>

> Any comments would be appreciation on whether amiodarone is in fact as toxic

as some web sites say, or whether these criticisms are likely to be just part of

the anti-iodine phobia many doctors seem to have.  This lady is likely to go

with her doctor's orders regardless, so our choice is probably between (1) get

her back on the amiodarone with the doctor's blessing or (2) no iodine

supplementation at all.

>

> We will appreciate any and all constructive comments!

>

> thanks.

[Guest guest]

Thank you for the commentary the seriousness of Atrial Fibrillation - it just

about terminated this lady too, until they started her on IV amiodarone (which

is of course heavily composed of iodine - 70 mg I think). That stopped the

A-fib rather quickly, and with oral amiodarone her a-fib as been nonexistent for

going on three years now.

The problem is that if you look up amiodarone there are all sorts of supposed

side effects and toxicities listed, but I am suspicious of whether those

side-effects are in fact true, or just artifacts of the widespread phobias

against iodine in any form.

In this case our choice (for psychological reasons of the need to follow

doctors' advice) is probably amiodarone or no iodine supplement at all.

That's why I'm interested in any experienced comments on whether amiodarone is

in fact an acceptable method of iodine supplementation. I'm sure no one would

suggest it is preferable to iodoral or Lugol's, but I am wondering if there is

anecdotal evidence as to whether the supposed side effects of amiodarone are

really anything to worry about.

thanks again.

> > I have an 86 year old relative who has had difficult atrial fibrillation

problems in the past.  Her heart doctor (not the one who originally prescribed

it) recently took her off amiodarone out of concern that it was " interfering

with her thyroid medication " (which is synthroid -- she has continued throughout

the treatment to show significant hypothyroid symptoms in terms of energy level,

hair loss, very cold-natured, etc.)

> >

> > My question is this:  it is unlikely that she will be willing to take

significant iodine supplements on her own, so I am wondering whether to

encourage her to try to get her doctor to put her back on amiodarone (on the

theory that the amiodarone version of iodine is better than no iodine) or just

go without iodine supplementation, since the establishment literature seems to

be so skiddish about amiodarone side effects (so far as I can tell she has had

no side effects and was doing well on amiodarone from the heart standpoint.

> >

> > Any comments would be appreciation on whether amiodarone is in fact as toxic

as some web sites say, or whether these criticisms are likely to be just part of

the anti-iodine phobia many doctors seem to have.  This lady is likely to go

with her doctor's orders regardless, so our choice is probably between (1) get

her back on the amiodarone with the doctor's blessing or (2) no iodine

supplementation at all.

> >

> > We will appreciate any and all constructive comments!

> >

> > thanks.

>

[Guest guest]

Insufficient thyroid hormone replacement will cause ALL sorts of symptoms

INCLUDING cardiac complications.

1. synthroid is not a very good substitute for most with hypothyroidism.

2. She is obviously NOT at optimal levels on the synthroid OTHERWISE she

wouldn't have hypothyroid symptoms!

Ravetclan gave you a personal experience that explains WHY proper thyroid

hormone supplementation at OPTIMAL levels is so necessary and missed by most

traditional drs.

You can treat the 'effect' and not the cause for only so long.

> > > I have an 86 year old relative who has had difficult atrial fibrillation

problems in the past.  Her heart doctor (not the one who originally prescribed

it) recently took her off amiodarone out of concern that it was " interfering

with her thyroid medication " (which is synthroid -- she has continued throughout

the treatment to show significant hypothyroid symptoms in terms of energy level,

hair loss, very cold-natured, etc.)

> > >

> > > My question is this:  it is unlikely that she will be willing to take

significant iodine supplements on her own, so I am wondering whether to

encourage her to try to get her doctor to put her back on amiodarone (on the

theory that the amiodarone version of iodine is better than no iodine) or just

go without iodine supplementation, since the establishment literature seems to

be so skiddish about amiodarone side effects (so far as I can tell she has had

no side effects and was doing well on amiodarone from the heart standpoint.

> > >

> > > Any comments would be appreciation on whether amiodarone is in fact as

toxic as some web sites say, or whether these criticisms are likely to be just

part of the anti-iodine phobia many doctors seem to have.  This lady is likely

to go with her doctor's orders regardless, so our choice is probably between (1)

get her back on the amiodarone with the doctor's blessing or (2) no iodine

supplementation at all.

> > >

> > > We will appreciate any and all constructive comments!

> > >

> > > thanks.

> >

>

[Guest guest]

I agree. Dr. Broda wrote a book on heart conditions and thyroid. http://www.amazon.com/Solved-Riddle-Heart-Attacks-/dp/0913730270 He addresses it in his Hypothyroidism: The unsuspected illness too. Many have seen angina, high cholesterol and more melt away with the addition of Armour thyroid at optimum levels.

Steph

Re: Amiodarone

Insufficient thyroid hormone replacement will cause ALL sorts of symptoms INCLUDING cardiac complications.1. synthroid is not a very good substitute for most with hypothyroidism. 2. She is obviously NOT at optimal levels on the synthroid OTHERWISE she wouldn't have hypothyroid symptoms!Ravetclan gave you a personal experience that explains WHY proper thyroid hormone supplementation at OPTIMAL levels is so necessary and missed by most traditional drs. You can treat the 'effect' and not the cause for only so long. > > > I have an 86 year old relative who has had difficult atrial fibrillation problems in the past. Her heart doctor (not the one who originally prescribed it) recently took her off amiodarone out of concern that it was "interfering with her thyroid medication" (which is synthroid -- she has continued throughout the treatment to show significant hypothyroid symptoms in terms of energy level, hair loss, very cold-natured, etc.)> > >> > > My question is this: it is unlikely that she will be willing to take significant iodine supplements on her own, so I am wondering whether to encourage her to try to get her doctor to put her back on amiodarone (on the theory that the amiodarone version of iodine is better than no iodine) or just go without iodine supplementation, since the establishment literature seems to be so skiddish about amiodarone side effects (so far as I can tell she has had no side effects and was doing well on amiodarone from the heart standpoint.> > >> > > Any comments would be appreciation on whether amiodarone is in fact as toxic as some web sites say, or whether these criticisms are likely to be just part of the anti-iodine phobia many doctors seem to have. This lady is likely to go with her doctor's orders regardless, so our choice is probably between (1) get her back on the amiodarone with the doctor's blessing or (2) no iodine supplementation at all.> > >> > > We will appreciate any and all constructive comments!> > >> > > thanks.> >>

[Guest guest]

Thank you Steph. I am thinking that the underlying cause of the thyroid issue

is iodine insufficiency, so I am still wondering whether amiodarone, while not

the optimal method of iodine supplementation, is better than no iodine

supplementation at all. I have seen numerous mentions of amiodarone in the

writings of the iodine doctors, but those comments don't seem to take a position

on whether the reputed " side effects " of amiodarone are truly a concern or

likely just iodine-phobia.

> > > > I have an 86 year old relative who has had difficult atrial

fibrillation problems in the past. Her heart doctor (not the one who originally

prescribed it) recently took her off amiodarone out of concern that it was

" interfering with her thyroid medication " (which is synthroid -- she has

continued throughout the treatment to show significant hypothyroid symptoms in

terms of energy level, hair loss, very cold-natured, etc.)

> > > >

> > > > My question is this: it is unlikely that she will be willing to take

significant iodine supplements on her own, so I am wondering whether to

encourage her to try to get her doctor to put her back on amiodarone (on the

theory that the amiodarone version of iodine is better than no iodine) or just

go without iodine supplementation, since the establishment literature seems to

be so skiddish about amiodarone side effects (so far as I can tell she has had

no side effects and was doing well on amiodarone from the heart standpoint.

> > > >

> > > > Any comments would be appreciation on whether amiodarone is in fact as

toxic as some web sites say, or whether these criticisms are likely to be just

part of the anti-iodine phobia many doctors seem to have. This lady is likely

to go with her doctor's orders regardless, so our choice is probably between (1)

get her back on the amiodarone with the doctor's blessing or (2) no iodine

supplementation at all.

> > > >

> > > > We will appreciate any and all constructive comments!

> > > >

> > > > thanks.

> > >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

I want to share my experience with Amioderone. My father was put on it soon

after it was put on the market. His doctor kept him on it for 10 years. He had

all sorts of problems including fainting and major hypothyroid symptoms.

Finally, he passed out at the vets hospital where he was entertaining the old

vets (my father is one too) on the piano. He did that weekly. That was when my

mother decided it was time to find a new doctor. The nurse in the emergency

room said quietly that it was a good idea. It seems like everyone in town knew

the doctor was not a good one except my parents. But by then the damage was

done. So the new doctors took him off the Amioderone right away.

It seems that the drug is approved for and intended for use only in the

emergency room under emergency conditions to get the heart under control. It

was never intended for long term use.

Now my father suffers from being cold all the time. Even in summer! Another

problem he developed from it was aphasia. When I started researching

Amioderone, I learned that there were even far worse side effects, like death!

They put my father on Synthroid. But that was not working and it seemed like it

messed him up more. Then my mother talked the doctor into armour thyroid. I

don't think he is getting enough. But at least he is on Lugol's We have him on

plenty of that.

I think the Amioderone burns the thyroid out. It seems I read something about

that but I can't remember it exactly or where I read it.

Best of luck figuring out what you can do for your loved one.

>

> Thank you Steph. I am thinking that the underlying cause of the thyroid issue

is iodine insufficiency, so I am still wondering whether amiodarone, while not

the optimal method of iodine supplementation, is better than no iodine

supplementation at all. I have seen numerous mentions of amiodarone in the

writings of the iodine doctors, but those comments don't seem to take a position

on whether the reputed " side effects " of amiodarone are truly a concern or

likely just iodine-phobia.

>

[Guest guest]

" It seems that the drug is approved for and intended for use only in the

emergency room under emergency conditions to get the heart under control. It was

never intended for long term use. ... When I started researching Amioderone, I

learned that there were even far worse side effects, like death! "

Yes, that's the kind of thing that I've found all over the internet, but

apparently your father did well for 10 years on it(?), and in our case, it was

prescribed by a heart doctor who has an outstanding reputation, so in our case

we have no concerns about the competence of the doctor who put her on it.

So the issue remains: Do iodine-friendly doctors in fact believe that

Amiodarone is harmful, or do the sort of limitation and side-effects referenced

in your post derive from the iodine-phobia of the anti-iodine establishment?

[Guest guest]

I just sent a message to Dr. Brownstein asking his opinion. I will let you know what he thinks when he responds.

Steph

Re: Amiodarone

"It seems that the drug is approved for and intended for use only in the emergency room under emergency conditions to get the heart under control. It was never intended for long term use. ... When I started researching Amioderone, I learned that there were even far worse side effects, like death!"Yes, that's the kind of thing that I've found all over the internet, but apparently your father did well for 10 years on it(?), and in our case, it was prescribed by a heart doctor who has an outstanding reputation, so in our case we have no concerns about the competence of the doctor who put her on it.So the issue remains: Do iodine-friendly doctors in fact believe that Amiodarone is harmful, or do the sort of limitation and side-effects referenced in your post derive from the iodine-phobia of the anti-iodine establishment?

[Guest guest]

I very much appreciate that .

I gather from reading the general press that Atrial Fibrillation is a problem

that more and more people are having, and Amiodarone appears to be the drug of

choice to treat it.

So I bet this question will come up again in the future, and I will not be the

only one who will benefit from his response.

thanks again.

[Guest guest]

My thoughts are that it is low thyroid, lack of good oils, low magnesium, sex hormone imbalance and low iodine (last but not least).

Re: Amiodarone

I very much appreciate that .I gather from reading the general press that Atrial Fibrillation is a problem that more and more people are having, and Amiodarone appears to be the drug of choice to treat it. So I bet this question will come up again in the future, and I will not be the only one who will benefit from his response.thanks again.

[Guest guest]

I found this post very interesting.

My mum has mitral valve regurgitation and was on this for well over a year.

She had been given many different drugs and none had worked. She also had

surgical ablation procedure and this did not work either.

The only thing that worked was Amioderone but I think that was because she was

deficient in iodine and has been for most of her life!!!

Hence my health problems!

Adrienne.

> >

> > Thank you Steph. I am thinking that the underlying cause of the thyroid

issue is iodine insufficiency, so I am still wondering whether amiodarone, while

not the optimal method of iodine supplementation, is better than no iodine

supplementation at all. I have seen numerous mentions of amiodarone in the

writings of the iodine doctors, but those comments don't seem to take a position

on whether the reputed " side effects " of amiodarone are truly a concern or

likely just iodine-phobia.

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Thanks very much .

>

> Ok, I got a response from Dr. Brownstein. His words were: BIG BIG Risks.

Dangerous Drug. Associated with a Ton of bad things. " This is " No way to get

Iodine.

>

> So if you think it is better than no iodine at all. Think again. You would

be better off w/o both if you only have the option of Amiodarone.

>

>

>

>

> This is from the PDR:

>

>

>

> CORDARONE RX

> Amiodarone HCl (Wyeth)

>

> THERAPEUTIC CLASS

> Class III antiarrhythmic

>

> INDICATIONS

> Back to top

> Treatment of documented, life-threatening recurrent ventricular fibrillation

and recurrent hemodynamically unstable ventricular tachycardia.

>

> ADULT DOSAGE

> Back to top

> Adults: Give LD in hospital. LD: 800-1600mg/day in divided doses for 1-3

weeks. After control is achieved, then 600-800mg/day for 1 month. Maint:

400mg/day; up to 600mg/day if needed. Use lowest effective dose. Take with

meals. Elderly: Start at low end of dosing range.

>

> HOW SUPPLIED

> Back to top

> Tab: 200mg* *scored

>

> CONTRAINDICATIONS

> Back to top

> Severe sinus-node dysfunction causing marked sinus bradycardia; 2nd- and

3rd-degree AV block; when episodes of bradycardia have caused syncope (except

when used with a pacemaker); cardiogenic shock. Hypersensitivity to iodine.

>

> WARNINGS/PRECAUTIONS

> Back to top

> Only for life-threatening arrhythmias due to its substantial toxicity (eg,

pulmonary toxicity including pulmonary alveolar hemorrhage, hepatic injury,

arrhythmia exacerbation). Hospitalize when giving LD. May cause a clinical

syndrome of cough and progressive dyspnea. D/C if LFTs are 3x ULN or if elevated

baseline doubles; monitor LFTs regularly. Optic neuropathy, optic neuritis

reported. Fetal harm in pregnancy. May develop reversible corneal micro deposits

(eg, visual halos, blurred vision), photosensitivity, peripheral neuropathy

(rare). May decrease T3 levels, increase thyroxine levels, increase inactive

reverse T3 levels and can cause hypo- or hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism may

result in thyrotoxicosis and/or the possibility of arrhythmia breakthrough or

aggravation. ARDS reported with surgery. Correct K+ or magnesium deficiency

before therapy. Caution in elderly.

>

> ADVERSE REACTIONS

> Back to top

> Pulmonary toxicity (eg, inflammation, fibrosis), arrhythmia exacerbation,

hepatic injury, malaise, fatigue, tremor, poor coordination, paresthesis,

nausea, vomiting, constipation, anorexia, ophthalmic abnormalities,

photosensitivity, akinesia, bradykinesia.

>

> DRUG INTERACTIONS

> Back to top

> Risk of interactions after discontinuation due to its long half-life. May

increase sensitivity to myocardial depressant and conduction effects of

halogenated inhalation anesthetics. Elevates cyclosporine plasma levels. D/C or

reduce digoxin dose by 50%. D/C or decrease warfarin dose by 1/3-1/2. Avoid

grapefruit juice. Caution with ?-blockers, CCBs, lidocaine, methotrexate. May

increase levels of quinidine, procainamide, phenytoin, flecainide. Initiate

added antiarrhythmic drug at lower than usual dose. D/C or decrease quinidine

dose by 1/3-1/2. D/C or decrease procainamide dose by 1/3. Caution with

loratadine, trazadone, disopyramide, fluoroquinolones, macrolides, azoles; QT

prolongation reported. Decreased levels with cholestyramine, rifampin,

phenytoin, St. 's wort. Rhabdomyolysis/myopathy reported with HMG-CoA

reductase inhibitors (simvastatin and atorvastatin). Ineffective inhibition of

platelet aggregation with clopidogrel. Fentanyl may cause hypotension,

bradycardia, and decreased cardiac output. Increased levels with protease

inhibitors; monitor for toxicity. Increased levels of CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2D6,

CYP3A4 substrates reported. Interactions reported with CYP3A4 inducers. CYP2C8

and CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase amiodarone levels.

>

> PREGNANCY

> Back to top

> Category D, not for use in nursing.

>

> MECHANISM OF ACTION

> Back to top

> Class III antiarrhythmic; prolongs myocardial cell-action potential duration

and refractory period, and causes noncompetitive ?- and ?-adrenergic inhibition.

>

> PHARMACOKINETICS

> Back to top

> Absorption: Slow and variable; Tmax=3-7 hrs. Distribution: Vd=60L/kg; plasma

protein binding (96%); found in breast milk. Metabolism: CYP3A4, 2C8;

desethylamiodarone (major metabolite). Elimination: Bile, urine; T1/2=58 days,

36 days (metabolite).

>

> ASSESSMENT

> Back to top

> Assess for life threatening arrhythmias, ventricular arrhythmia, optic

neuropathy or optic neuritis, hepatic impairment, pregnancy/nursing status,

thyroid function, pre-exsisting pulmonary disease, recent MI, and possible drug

interactions. Correct hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia prior to initiation.

>

> MONITORING

> Back to top

> Monitor for pulmonary toxicities (eg, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, or

interstitial/alveolar pneumonitis) manifested by cough, progressive dyspnea, and

fatalities, accompanied by functional, radiological, gallium-scan, and

pathological data. Perform history, physical exam, and chest X-ray every 3-6

months. Monitor for sinus bradycardia, sinus arrest, and heart block. Monitor

induced hyperthyroidism/thyrotoxicosis, hepatic failure, optic

neuritis/neuropathy, corneal microdeposits, vision loss, fetal harm, peripheral

neuropathy, photosensitivity, LFTs, T4, T3 and reverse T3. Perioperative

monitoring for hypotension and ARDS recommended.

>

> PATIENT COUNSELING

> Back to top

> Advise to notify physician if pregnant/nursing. Inform about benefits/risks,

including possibility of vision impairment, thyroid abnormalities, peripheral

neuropathy, and photosensitivity. Report any adverse reactions to physician.

Counsel to take as directed. Do not take with grapefruit juice. Avoid prolonged

sunlight exposure. Advise that corneal refractive laser surgery is

contraindicated with concurrent use.

>

> ADMINISTRATION/STORAGE

> Back to top

> Administration: Oral route. Storage: 20-25°C (68-77°F). Protect from light.

>

[Guest guest]

You are welcome.

Re: Amiodarone

Thanks very much .>> Ok, I got a response from Dr. Brownstein. His words were: BIG BIG Risks. Dangerous Drug. Associated with a Ton of bad things. "This is" No way to get Iodine. > > So if you think it is better than no iodine at all. Think again. You would be better off w/o both if you only have the option of Amiodarone.> > > > > This is from the PDR:> > > > CORDARONE RX > Amiodarone HCl (Wyeth) > > THERAPEUTIC CLASS > Class III antiarrhythmic> > INDICATIONS > Back to top > Treatment of documented, life-threatening recurrent ventricular fibrillation and recurrent hemodynamically unstable ventricular tachycardia.> > ADULT DOSAGE > Back to top > Adults: Give LD in hospital. LD: 800-1600mg/day in divided doses for 1-3 weeks. After control is achieved, then 600-800mg/day for 1 month. Maint: 400mg/day; up to 600mg/day if needed. Use lowest effective dose. Take with meals. Elderly: Start at low end of dosing range.> > HOW SUPPLIED > Back to top > Tab: 200mg* *scored> > CONTRAINDICATIONS > Back to top > Severe sinus-node dysfunction causing marked sinus bradycardia; 2nd- and 3rd-degree AV block; when episodes of bradycardia have caused syncope (except when used with a pacemaker); cardiogenic shock. Hypersensitivity to iodine.> > WARNINGS/PRECAUTIONS > Back to top > Only for life-threatening arrhythmias due to its substantial toxicity (eg, pulmonary toxicity including pulmonary alveolar hemorrhage, hepatic injury, arrhythmia exacerbation). Hospitalize when giving LD. May cause a clinical syndrome of cough and progressive dyspnea. D/C if LFTs are 3x ULN or if elevated baseline doubles; monitor LFTs regularly. Optic neuropathy, optic neuritis reported. Fetal harm in pregnancy. May develop reversible corneal micro deposits (eg, visual halos, blurred vision), photosensitivity, peripheral neuropathy (rare). May decrease T3 levels, increase thyroxine levels, increase inactive reverse T3 levels and can cause hypo- or hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism may result in thyrotoxicosis and/or the possibility of arrhythmia breakthrough or aggravation. ARDS reported with surgery. Correct K+ or magnesium deficiency before therapy. Caution in elderly.> > ADVERSE REACTIONS > Back to top > Pulmonary toxicity (eg, inflammation, fibrosis), arrhythmia exacerbation, hepatic injury, malaise, fatigue, tremor, poor coordination, paresthesis, nausea, vomiting, constipation, anorexia, ophthalmic abnormalities, photosensitivity, akinesia, bradykinesia.> > DRUG INTERACTIONS > Back to top > Risk of interactions after discontinuation due to its long half-life. May increase sensitivity to myocardial depressant and conduction effects of halogenated inhalation anesthetics. Elevates cyclosporine plasma levels. D/C or reduce digoxin dose by 50%. D/C or decrease warfarin dose by 1/3-1/2. Avoid grapefruit juice. Caution with ?-blockers, CCBs, lidocaine, methotrexate. May increase levels of quinidine, procainamide, phenytoin, flecainide. Initiate added antiarrhythmic drug at lower than usual dose. D/C or decrease quinidine dose by 1/3-1/2. D/C or decrease procainamide dose by 1/3. Caution with loratadine, trazadone, disopyramide, fluoroquinolones, macrolides, azoles; QT prolongation reported. Decreased levels with cholestyramine, rifampin, phenytoin, St. 's wort. Rhabdomyolysis/myopathy reported with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (simvastatin and atorvastatin). Ineffective inhibition of platelet aggregation with clopidogrel. Fentanyl may cause hypotension, bradycardia, and decreased cardiac output. Increased levels with protease inhibitors; monitor for toxicity. Increased levels of CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2D6, CYP3A4 substrates reported. Interactions reported with CYP3A4 inducers. CYP2C8 and CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase amiodarone levels.> > PREGNANCY > Back to top > Category D, not for use in nursing.> > MECHANISM OF ACTION > Back to top > Class III antiarrhythmic; prolongs myocardial cell-action potential duration and refractory period, and causes noncompetitive ?- and ?-adrenergic inhibition.> > PHARMACOKINETICS > Back to top > Absorption: Slow and variable; Tmax=3-7 hrs. Distribution: Vd=60L/kg; plasma protein binding (96%); found in breast milk. Metabolism: CYP3A4, 2C8; desethylamiodarone (major metabolite). Elimination: Bile, urine; T1/2=58 days, 36 days (metabolite).> > ASSESSMENT > Back to top > Assess for life threatening arrhythmias, ventricular arrhythmia, optic neuropathy or optic neuritis, hepatic impairment, pregnancy/nursing status, thyroid function, pre-exsisting pulmonary disease, recent MI, and possible drug interactions. Correct hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia prior to initiation.> > MONITORING > Back to top > Monitor for pulmonary toxicities (eg, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, or interstitial/alveolar pneumonitis) manifested by cough, progressive dyspnea, and fatalities, accompanied by functional, radiological, gallium-scan, and pathological data. Perform history, physical exam, and chest X-ray every 3-6 months. Monitor for sinus bradycardia, sinus arrest, and heart block. Monitor induced hyperthyroidism/thyrotoxicosis, hepatic failure, optic neuritis/neuropathy, corneal microdeposits, vision loss, fetal harm, peripheral neuropathy, photosensitivity, LFTs, T4, T3 and reverse T3. Perioperative monitoring for hypotension and ARDS recommended.> > PATIENT COUNSELING > Back to top > Advise to notify physician if pregnant/nursing. Inform about benefits/risks, including possibility of vision impairment, thyroid abnormalities, peripheral neuropathy, and photosensitivity. Report any adverse reactions to physician. Counsel to take as directed. Do not take with grapefruit juice. Avoid prolonged sunlight exposure. Advise that corneal refractive laser surgery is contraindicated with concurrent use.> > ADMINISTRATION/STORAGE > Back to top > Administration: Oral route. Storage: 20-25°C (68-77°F). Protect from light.>

[Guest guest]

AF is NOT an " drug " insufficiency : )

Traditional docs may choose to use drugs to treat many presentations

of AF, but that does not mean thats the way to treat it.

Personally, I think sometimes we've been so accustomed to thinking

modern medicine has ALL the answers that we don't look at what the body is

asking for, what it is lacking to function properly.

>

> I very much appreciate that .

>

> I gather from reading the general press that Atrial Fibrillation is a problem

that more and more people are having, and Amiodarone appears to be the drug of

choice to treat it.

>

> So I bet this question will come up again in the future, and I will not be the

only one who will benefit from his response.

>

> thanks again.

>