Bristol Amiodarone Hydrochloride 200mg x28

Bristol Amiodarone 200mg is a potent class III antiarrhythmic medication prescribed for life-threatening heart rhythm disorders. This prescription-only medication is distinguished by its unique mechanism of action and high efficacy in treating both ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias when other treatments have proven ineffective.

Uses

Bristol Amiodarone 200mg is primarily prescribed for managing severe heart rhythm abnormalities, including recurrent ventricular fibrillation, unstable ventricular tachycardia, and persistent atrial fibrillation. It serves as a crucial treatment option for patients who haven’t responded adequately to other antiarrhythmic medications.

Benefits

• Effectively controls life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias
• Maintains normal heart rhythm in chronic atrial fibrillation
• Provides sustained arrhythmia control due to long half-life
• Remains effective in patients with compromised heart function
• Reduces hospitalization rates for cardiac arrhythmias
• Can be used when other antiarrhythmic drugs have failed
• Offers flexible dosing options for various clinical scenarios

How It Works

Bristol Amiodarone 200mg operates through a complex mechanism targeting multiple ion channels in heart cells. It primarily blocks potassium channels while also affecting sodium and calcium channels. This comprehensive action extends the heart’s electrical recovery period, preventing irregular rhythms from developing and maintaining normal cardiac conduction.

Dosage

Side Effects

Bristol Amiodarone 200mg can cause significant side effects requiring regular monitoring. Common effects include photosensitivity, thyroid dysfunction, and corneal deposits. More serious effects may involve pulmonary toxicity, liver damage, and cardiac conduction abnormalities.

Warning

Close medical supervision is essential during Amiodarone 200mg therapy. Regular monitoring of thyroid, liver, and lung function is mandatory. Patients should immediately report any new or worsening symptoms, particularly breathing difficulties or irregular heartbeats.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Bristol Amiodarone 200mg is contraindicated during pregnancy (Category D) and breastfeeding. It can cause serious fetal harm and is known to be excreted in breast milk. Women of childbearing age must use effective contraception during treatment.

Interactions

• Increases the effect of blood thinners like warfarin
• Interacts with beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers
• May enhance the effects of digoxin
• Affects metabolism of numerous medications through CYP450 inhibition
• Can interact with grapefruit juice and certain antibiotics

Precautions

Patients should avoid direct sunlight and use sun protection due to increased photosensitivity. Regular eye examinations are recommended. Alcohol should be avoided during treatment. Patients should carry medical identification indicating Amiodarone 200mg use.

Important Information

Treatment requires consistent monitoring through blood tests, chest X-rays, and ECGs. Patients should not abruptly discontinue Amiodarone 200mg without medical supervision. Due to its long half-life, effects and interactions may persist for months after discontinuation.