Dronedarone

Dronedarone is a medication used to reduce the risk of hospitalization in certain patients with atrial fibrillation. It belongs to a class of drugs called antiarrhythmics. Dronedarone works by affecting the electrical activity of the heart, helping to maintain a normal heart rhythm. It is typically prescribed for patients who have had paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation and have a history of or current symptoms of heart failure, but are in sinus rhythm or will be cardioverted.

The drug is taken orally, usually twice a day with meals. It is important to take dronedarone exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Dronedarone can interact with many other medications, so it is crucial to inform your doctor about all other drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

Common side effects of dronedarone can include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. More serious side effects, though less common, can include liver problems and heart failure. Patients taking dronedarone require regular monitoring by their doctor, including liver function tests and assessments of heart function. Contraindications for dronedarone include severe heart failure (NYHA Class IV), and a history of certain heart rhythm problems. It should also not be used in patients with certain liver conditions or if you have a history of drug-induced liver disease.