Amiodarone--avoid the danger of torsade de pointes.
We present two patients who had life-threatening arrhythmias, which are highly likely to be secondary to amiodarone. This class III anti-arrhythmic is commonly prescribed for the acute presentation of supra-ventricular and ventricular arrhythmias. However, occasionally its use can transform arrhythmias from benign to dangerous. These cases highlight the need for careful attention to the indications, cautions and contra-indications of amiodarone as well as the need for vigilance following initiation of anti-arrhythmic therapy.
Foley
Paul
P
University of Birmingham, Good Hope Hospital, Rectory Road, Sutton Coldfield B75 7RR, United Kingdom. paul.foley@heartofengland.nhs.uk
Kalra
Paul
P
Andrews
Neil
N
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000638:Amiodarone / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001282:Atrial Flutter / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017180:Tachycardia, Ventricular / Q000188:drug therapy; D016171:Torsades de Pointes / Q000139:chemically induced*
D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents; D000638:Amiodarone