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CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Andrea Tarr, Fear Free,

Medication: Amiodarone

Medication: Amiodarone

Your dog has been prescribed amiodarone for the treatment of certain types of abnormal heart rhythm.

Key points:
• Antidysrhythmic.
• Inhibits sympathetic nervous system activity.
• Use with care if hypotension.
• Do not use in animals with hyperthyroidism.
• Dosage: twice daily usually for 1 week then once daily.

This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. 

Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian. 

Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage

Name

  • Amiodarone (aMI-O- darone).

Brand name

  • There are no licensed veterinary products containing amiodarone for dogs and cats. Your veterinarian may prescribe a product authorized for use in humans.
  • Coradrone X ® (Europe & UK).

Class of medication

  • Class 3 Anti-arrhythmic.

Storage

  • Store at room temperature: >15°C (59°F) , <30°C (86°F) and in a dry environment away from direct light.

Why has my dog been prescribed amiodarone?

Your veterinarian has prescribed amiodarone for the treatment of:

  • Arrhythmias:
    • Atrial or ventricular that do not respond to other treatments.

How is the medication given?

Amiodarone is given as a tablet, twice daily usually for 1 week then once daily. Tablets are usually administered directly into your dog’s mouth but may be given along with some food, This may be helpful as some dogs vomit if the drug is given on an empty stomach. If your dog is admitted to hospital your veterinarian can give amiodarone by injection.

Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?

The following side-effects have been reported:

  • Slow heart rate.
  • Low blood pressure.
  • Changes to heart rhythm.
  • Vomiting.
  • Changes to the eye.
  • Thyroid abnormalities.

Drug interactions

  • Amiodarone can potentially interact with several drugs. If your pet is on other medication, check with your veterinarian.

How long will my dog need to receive this medication?

Amiodarone tablets should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. The treatment course is usually long-term, potentially lifelong. Clinical improvement should occur quickly after start of treatment as effects may be noticed within 1-2 hours of administration. If treatment is stopped, any effects will cease within a few days, though effects may last longer in animals with liver or kidney disease.

How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?

Dispose of any unused amiodarone safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save tablets for future use or give to other pets.

What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?

If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period.

My dog is unwell, should I still give the drug?

If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice. 

What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?

Amiodarone should only be given to the dog that it has been prescribed for:

  • Do not give to other pets in the household.
  • Do not give to animals with digitalis intoxication.
  • Do not use in animals with ventricular fibrillation.
  • If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice.

If accidentally consumed by a person, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.

Will my dog need to be monitored while on amiodarone?

If your dog has a heart problem your veterinarian will perform regular checks and ECG will be monitored during treatment.

Further information 

If you have any concerns, further information on amiodarone can be found on the package insert.

Europe & UK

  • There are no licensed veterinary products containing amiodarone for dogs and cats in the UK and Europe.

USA

  • There are no licensed veterinary products containing amiodarone for dogs or cats in the US.

Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your dog’s medication. 

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