Visit https://nursing.com/140meds to request your free copy of "140 Must Know Meds"   Outline Generic Name Amiodarone

Trade Name Cordarone

Indication a-fib, ventricular arrhythmias, SVT, ACLS protocol for v-fib and v-tach

Action Prolongs phase 3 of the action potential, makes the heart more tolerant to arrhythmias, inhibits adrenergic stimulation, slows rate, decreases peripheral vascular resistance causing vasodilation

Therapeutic Class Antiarrhythmic class III, potassium channel blocker

Pharmacologic Class None

Nursing Considerations • May lead to ARDS, pulmonary toxicity, CHF, bradycardia, hypotension • Increases risk for QT prolongation • Increases digoxin levels • Increases activity of warfarin • Monitor EKG continuously while on therapy • Assess for signs and symptoms of ARDS • Monitor liver function test • Check dosage with another RN • Teach pt to monitor pulse daily and report abnormalities • Avoid drinking grapefruit juice