Amiodarone
Amiodarone is an anti-arrhythmic medicine used for some abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation when other options are unsuitable or have not worked, usually under cardiology guidance in the UK.
This medicine is part of the Blood pressure, cholesterol & related category.
Generic name: amiodarone
Quick answers
Short replies to searches people often run before speaking to a clinician. For the overview of what the medicine is used for, see the short summary under the page title above.
What is it for?
Amiodarone is an anti-arrhythmic medicine used for some abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation when other options are unsuitable or have not worked, usually under cardiology guidance in th…
How long does it take to work?
Onset varies by condition and dose. Your GP or pharmacist can explain what to expect and when to review.
What are common side effects?
Tiredness, tremor, taste changes, nausea, or slow pulse can occur.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with it?
Ask your GP or pharmacist before taking Amiodarone with paracetamol or ibuprofen. Many adults use paracetamol for short periods when appropriate; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen need extra checks with your other medicines and health conditions.
More about what Amiodarone is used for
Amiodarone is an anti-arrhythmic medicine used for some abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation when other options are unsuitable or have not worked, usually under cardiology guidance in the UK.
It is not a first-line tablet for everyone with palpitations — your specialist explains why it is chosen for you.
How does Amiodarone work, and how long does it take to work?
It slows electrical signals in the heart and prolongs the heart’s recovery between beats, which can restore or maintain a steadier rhythm in selected patients.
Effects persist for a long time after stopping because the drug leaves the body slowly.
How and when should you take Amiodarone?
Dosing varies — sometimes a higher loading phase then a lower maintenance dose. Follow your prescription exactly; tablets are usually swallowed with water.
Sun protection is important because skin can become more sensitive to sunlight.
What are the common side effects of Amiodarone?
Tiredness, tremor, taste changes, nausea, or slow pulse can occur. Blue-grey skin discolouration is uncommon but recognised with long-term use.
Thyroid problems (over- or under-active) can develop — attend monitoring appointments.
Serious side effects of Amiodarone — when to get urgent help
Seek urgent help for new breathlessness, persistent cough, fever, severe dizziness, or fainting — lung and liver problems need prompt review.
Report yellowing of eyes or skin or severe abdominal pain.
What if you miss a dose of Amiodarone?
If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless nearly time for the next. Do not double up.
Who should not take Amiodarone?
Severe thyroid disease, some heart blocks without a pacemaker, and pregnancy need specialist decisions. Many interactions exist — always carry an up-to-date medicine list.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with Amiodarone? — other interactions
Amiodarone in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Generally avoided in pregnancy; discuss breastfeeding with your specialist.
Blood tests and monitoring on Amiodarone
Thyroid function, liver tests, chest X-ray or lung checks, and ECG may be scheduled — attend all reviews.
What might your GP prescribe instead of Amiodarone?
Other anti-arrhythmics, rate-control drugs, or procedures such as ablation may be discussed depending on your rhythm problem.
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Reviewed by UK registered pharmacists for accuracy and clarity. Content is informational only.
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Frequently asked questions about Amiodarone
People also ask — common Google searches
- What is Amiodarone used for?
- Amiodarone is an anti-arrhythmic medicine used for some abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation when other options are unsuitable or have not worked, usually under cardiology guidance in the UK.
- How long does Amiodarone take to work?
- Onset varies by condition and dose. Your GP or pharmacist can explain what to expect and when to review. Always follow your prescriber’s follow-up plan.
- Can you take Amiodarone with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
- Ask your GP or pharmacist before taking Amiodarone with Paracetamol or Ibuprofen. Many adults use paracetamol for short periods when appropriate; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen need extra checks with your other medicines and health conditions.
- What are the side effects of Amiodarone?
- Tiredness, tremor, taste changes, nausea, or slow pulse can occur. Blue-grey skin discolouration is uncommon but recognised with long-term use. See the sections below for more detail, including serious side effects and when to seek urgent help.
- Why do I need blood tests on amiodarone?
- Monitoring picks up thyroid, liver, or other changes early. Your clinic will tell you how often tests are needed.
- Can I drink alcohol with amiodarone?
- Moderation is sensible; alcohol can affect the heart and liver. Ask your clinician if you drink regularly.
Need personalised advice?
Your local pharmacist or GP surgery can help with questions about your medicines, side effects, and alternatives that may be suitable for you.
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Often used with
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