Pacerone (Amiodarone) Flashcards

Study Notes

Pacerone (Amiodarone) Overview

Pacerone is the brand name for the generic drug amiodarone.
Amiodarone belongs to the antiarrhythmics therapeutic class (class III).

Mechanism of Action (MOA)

Prolongs the action potential and refractory period in cardiac tissue.
Inhibits adrenergic stimulation to the heart.
Slows sinus rate and increases PR and QT intervals.
Causes vasodilation, leading to decreased peripheral vascular resistance.

Indications

Primarily indicated for life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias that do not respond to less toxic agents.
Unlabeled uses include management of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias.
Used in IV form as part of ACLS and PALS for managing ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia after CPR and defibrillation efforts fail.

Assessment and Monitoring

Continuous ECG monitoring is essential.
Track heart rate and rhythm regularly.
Assess for signs and symptoms of heart failure (HF).
Monitor for bradycardia and any increase in arrhythmias.
Evaluate for pulmonary toxicity and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).
Perform ophthalmic exams due to potential eye-related side effects.
Regularly assess thyroid function to identify dysfunction early.

Patient Education

Advise patients to avoid grapefruit juice while on amiodarone.
Emphasize that missed doses should not be doubled.
Caution patients about photosensitivity.
Bluish discoloration of skin may occur after prolonged use.
Inform about the risk of epididymitis, presenting as pain and swelling in the scrotum.

Laboratory Monitoring

Monitor liver and thyroid functions before starting therapy and every six months thereafter.
Check electrolyte levels, including potassium (K+), calcium (Ca+), and magnesium (Mg+), since deficiencies can affect drug effectiveness and provoke arrhythmias.
IV administration is high alert; require verification with a second nurse before administration.

Side Effects

Long-term side effects may include ARDS, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary toxicity, worsening of arrhythmias, and toxic epidermal necrolysis.
More common side effects include dizziness, fatigue, malaise, corneal microdeposits, bradycardia, hypotension, anorexia, constipation, nausea, vomiting, hypothyroidism, ataxia, involuntary movements, paresthesia, peripheral neuropathy, poor coordination, and tremors.

Therapeutic Effect

The primary therapeutic effect of amiodarone is the suppression of arrhythmias, contributing to improved cardiac rhythm stability.

Description

Test your knowledge with these flashcards on Pacerone, the brand name for amiodarone. Learn about its therapeutic class, mechanism of action, and other essential details related to this important antiarrhythmic medication. Perfect for students in pharmacology or medical fields!