Learn a quick overview, the correct dosage, and additional notes on the ACLS drug Amiodarone.
Overview of Amiodarone:
Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic drug used to treat V-Fib or pulseless VT unresponsive to shock delivery, CPR, and a vasopressor. It can also be used to treat recurrent Hemodynamically Unstable Ventricular Tachycardia, Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, and Supraventricular Tachyarrhythmias.
Amiodarone can be considered the first-line antiarrhythmic agent given in cardiac arrest because it has shown the ability to increase short-term survival, improve the rate of ROSC, and increase the likelihood of hospital admission.
Amiodarone Dosage:
- The first dose of Amiodarone when being used to treat VT/V-Fib is 300 mg via IV/IO push. If needed, a second dose of 150 mg IV/IO push may be administered.
- When treating Tachycardia/VT, 150 mg IV/IO should be delivered over 10 minutes, with continuous infusions of 1 mg/min IV for 6 hours, and 0.5 mg/min IV for the next 18 hours.
Additional Notes on Amiodarone Usage:
- Amiodarone should be administered with extreme caution due to the fact that is associated with toxicity and serious side-effects
- The rapid infusion can cause hypotension
- Significant hypotension can occur if cumulative dosing exceeds 2.2 grams in a 24-hour period
- Do not administer Amiodarone with other drugs that may prolong QT interval
For a brief review of all the ACLS medications you should be familiar with, check out the article below. It acts as a great visual reference that will help you study more efficiently and effectively.
Additional ACLS Medications:
Conclusion
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