How do you take Amiodarone?

Your doctor will usually start you on a high dose, often 200 mg taken 3 times daily for the first 1 to 2 weeks, then gradually reduce it to 200 mg once daily or even lower as a maintenance dose. Take the tablets with food to reduce stomach upset. This drug must be prescribed and monitored closely by a doctor, so never adjust the dose on your own.

What are the side effects of Amiodarone?

Feeling tired or weak, nausea or loss of appetite, skin becoming more sensitive to sunlight (you may burn easily), slight shaking or trembling of the hands, blurred vision

Who should not take Amiodarone?

People allergic to amiodarone or iodine, people with thyroid problems (overactive or underactive thyroid), people with severe lung disease, people with very slow heartbeat (unless they have a pacemaker), and people with serious liver problems.

Prescription

Antiarrhythmic (heart rhythm stabilizer)

Amiodarone

Q: What is Amiodarone used for?

Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), fast heartbeat that won't slow down, dangerous heart rhythm problems

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Amiodarone is a powerful heart medication that works by steadying your heartbeat when it is beating too fast or in an irregular pattern, helping your heart pump blood more effectively.

How it works

Blocks sodium, potassium, and calcium channels while inhibiting beta-adrenergic receptors, thereby slowing conduction velocity and prolonging the refractory period across all cardiac tissue to suppress abnormal electrical activity. Additionally, acts as a non-competitive inhibitor of thyroid hormone metabolism, contributing to its prolonged antiarrhythmic effects.

What is it used for?

Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)fast heartbeat that won't slow downdangerous heart rhythm problems

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Heart Rhythm Disorders

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What to watch out for

This is a very serious heart medication, so only take it if a qualified doctor (preferably a heart specialist) prescribed it for you, and attend all your follow-up appointments for blood tests and check-ups. Protect your skin from direct sunlight by wearing long sleeves and using sunscreen, as this drug makes your skin burn very easily under the Nigerian sun. Never buy amiodarone from roadside vendors or share it with someone who has a similar complaint, as the wrong dose can be life-threatening.

Common Side Effects

Feeling tired or weak
nausea or loss of appetite
skin becoming more sensitive to sunlight (you may burn easily)
slight shaking or trembling of the hands
blurred vision

Serious Side Effects

Difficulty breathing or a persistent dry cough (could mean lung damage, so see a doctor immediately)
sudden changes in vision or eye pain
yellowing of the eyes or skin (signs of liver problems, so go to the hospital right away)

Drug Interactions

Warfarin (a blood thinner): amiodarone can dangerously increase its effect and cause serious bleeding, so your doctor must adjust the warfarin dose. Digoxin (another heart drug): taking both together can cause dangerously slow heartbeat. Grapefruit juice should be avoided as it can increase amiodarone levels in your blood.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Amiodarone is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding as it can seriously harm the baby. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Who Should NOT Take This

People allergic to amiodarone or iodine
people with thyroid problems (overactive or underactive thyroid)
people with severe lung disease
people with very slow heartbeat (unless they have a pacemaker)
and people with serious liver problems.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep the tablets in their original container and far out of reach of children.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.