Amiodarón

Amiodarón, commonly known as amiodarone, is a medication primarily used to treat and prevent certain types of serious irregular heart rhythms, such as ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and supraventricular tachycardia. It belongs to the class of drugs known as antiarrhythmics, specifically Class III, which work by prolonging the repolarization phase of cardiac cells and increasing the duration of the action potential.

Amiodarone is characterized by its complex pharmacokinetics, including a long half-life that can range from several weeks to months, necessitating careful dose management and monitoring. It is highly lipophilic, accumulating in tissues such as the liver, lungs, and adipose tissue. Its mechanism of action involves blocking multiple ion channels, including potassium, sodium, and calcium channels, as well as non-competitive beta-adrenergic blocking activity.

The medication is available in oral and intravenous forms. It is generally prescribed under close medical supervision due to its potential for significant adverse effects. Common side effects may include tremors, photosensitivity, and corneal microdeposits, while more severe complications can involve pulmonary toxicity, liver damage, thyroid dysfunction, and skin discoloration.

Because of its toxicity profile, amiodarone requires regular monitoring of lung, liver, thyroid function, and complete blood counts during therapy. Despite its risks, it is considered highly effective in controlling life-threatening arrhythmias, especially in patients who have not responded to other treatments.

While amiodarone is effective, it is usually reserved for specific cardiac conditions due to the potential for serious adverse effects. Its use must be carefully tailored to individual patient needs, with ongoing assessment to manage associated risks.