Amiodarone 100mg (Bristol) is a highly effective medication used to treat and manage serious irregular heart rhythms, including atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. It belongs to a class of drugs known as antiarrhythmics, which help restore and maintain a normal heart rhythm. Manufactured by Bristol, this medication is widely recognized for its reliability and efficacy in addressing complex cardiac conditions.
Uses of Amiodarone 100mg (Bristol)
Amiodarone 100mg is primarily prescribed for:
- Atrial Fibrillation: To control abnormal heartbeats in the upper chambers of the heart.
- Ventricular Tachycardia: To prevent life-threatening fast heart rhythms from the lower chambers.
- Ventricular Fibrillation: To treat chaotic electrical signals in the heart that can lead to cardiac arrest.
- Preventing Recurrence: To maintain a stable heart rhythm in patients with previous arrhythmias.
Amiodarone Ingredients
Each tablet of Amiodarone 100mg contains an Active Ingredient: Amiodarone Hydrochloride (100mg)
Inactive Ingredients: Lactose monohydrate, colloidal silicon dioxide, maize starch, and magnesium stearate.
How It Works (Mode of Action)
Amiodarone tablets work by stabilizing the electrical activity of the heart. It blocks specific potassium, sodium, and calcium channels in heart muscle cells, slowing the conduction of electrical impulses. This action helps normalize irregular rhythms, reduce excessive heart rates, and restore proper cardiac function. It also prolongs the refractory period, preventing the recurrence of abnormal heartbeats.
Amiodarone Dosage
The dosage of Amiodarone varies depending on the condition being treated:
Initial Dose: Typically, 200mg to 400mg per day, divided into multiple doses, for the first 1-2 weeks.
Maintenance Dose: Once stabilization occurs, the dose is reduced from 100mg to 200mg daily.
Swallow the Amiodarone tablet whole with water, preferably with food to avoid stomach upset.
Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
Amiodarone Side Effects
While Amiodarone 100mg is effective, it may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or fatigue
- Sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity)
- Thyroid dysfunction (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism)
- Lung toxicity (persistent cough or difficulty breathing)
- Liver function abnormalities
How Quickly It Works
Amiodarone begins to show its effects within a few hours to days of starting treatment. However, achieving a stable heart rhythm may take several weeks due to its long half-life and gradual accumulation in the body.
Can I stop taking Amiodarone suddenly?
No. Stopping Amiodarone abruptly may lead to a recurrence of arrhythmias.
Can I take Amiodarone with other medications?
Amiodarone tablets may interact with other drugs, including anticoagulants, beta-blockers, and certain antibiotics.
Is Amiodarone safe during pregnancy?
Amiodarone is not typically recommended during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
Can I drink alcohol while on Amiodarone?
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or liver dysfunction.
Where can you buy Amiodarone in Nigeria?
Buy Amiodarone tablets online at Drugstore.ng, Nigeria’s largest online pharmacy store.