What is Amiodarone?
(ay-mee-OH-da-rone)
Amiodarone (Cordarone, Pacerone) is an antiarrhythmic medication used to treat certain heart conditions.
It is used to treat and / or prevent abnormal rhythms or "beats" of the heart.
It may be taken in tablet or liquid form. Your child’s heart, lung, thyroid and liver functions will all be monitored while on this medication.
Special Instructions
- Do not discontinue this medication without talking to your child's doctor.
- Amiodarone may interact with other medications. Tell the doctor or pharmacist all other medications your child is taking, including prescription, over-the-counter (OTC) and any herbal or nutritional supplements.
- This medication should be given at the same time in relation to meals.
- Your child should wear sunscreen to prevent sunburn when outdoors because of increased sensitivity to sun that may occur while your child is on this medication.
- Your child should have annual eye doctor exams while on this medication.
- Check with your doctor before taking amiodarone if your child has lung, liver or thyroid disease.
- Tell your child's doctor that your child is taking amiodarone before any kind of surgery.
- Do not use after the expiration date on the bottle / package.
- Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
- If too much medication is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), 513-636-5111 or 1-800-222-1222, or call your child's doctor immediately.
If Your Child Misses a Dose
If a dose is missed, do not double the dose, just take the next dose as scheduled.
Possible Side Effects of Medication
- Cough
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Nightmares
- Behavior changes
- Tremors or abnormal movements of the body
- Increased sensitivity to the sun causing your child to burn more easily
Call Your Child's Doctor If You Notice:
- Breathing problems
- Unexplained fever
- Shortness of breath
- Palpitations or fast heart rate
- Severe nausea / vomiting
- Rash
- Numbness
- Dizziness
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
