amiodarone in atrial fibrillation

Last reviewed 01/2018

Amiodarone is reserved for patients with atrial fibrillation who are refractory to other forms of treatment.

Amiodarone is effective in atrial fibrillation and the low doses that are often required (200 mg/day) mean that side- effects are rare.

Amiodarone is effective in converting atrial fibrillation to sinus rhythm and maintaining sinus rhythm. Symptom control is good if breakthrough attacks occur.

The use of amiodarone in atrial fibrillation may interact with two commonly used drugs:

• digoxin: resulting in increased plasma concentrations of digoxin
• warfarin: resulting in overanticoagulation