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Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Amiodarone Oral Tablet (AMIODARONE - ORAL)

For irregular heartbeat.

Brand Name(s): Cordarone, Pacerone

Generic Name: Amiodarone

Instructions

This medicine may be taken with or without food, but it is important to take it the same way each time.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Avoid grapefruit juice while on this medicine.

This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.

It may take several weeks for this medicine to fully work.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients with weak hearts may have worsening of symptoms. If you notice difficulty breathing, weight gain, or swelling of your legs or ankles, let your doctor know right away.

This medicine is associated with an increased risk of serious heart problems, heart attack, and stroke. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience chest pain or difficulty breathing.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. This medicine can pass through breast milk to the baby.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • decreased appetite
  • constipation
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • loss of balance
  • bleeding or bruising
  • chest pain
  • changes in memory, mood, or thinking
  • difficulty concentrating
  • cough/wheezing/shortness of breath
  • dizziness
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • fainting
  • swelling in the neck or throat
  • hair loss
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • fast, irregular, or slow heartbeat
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • shakiness
  • blue-gray skin color
  • sweating
  • difficulty adjusting to changes in temperature
  • blurring or changes of vision
  • weakness
  • sudden or unexplained change in weight

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.