Pharmacology - Amiodarone

Pharmacology - Amiodarone 
Amiodarone is an antidysrhythmic agent  

Mode of Action 
The K+ channels in the cell membrane are blocked by medicines of class III, which causes a delay in repolarization and an increase in the duration of the action potential. Because of this, the refractory period is lengthened. Because it also inhibits the activity of beta-adrenoceptors and sodium channels, amiodarone possesses both class I and class II effects. In addition, sotalol possesses class II activities.

Lengthy duration of action; substantial tissue binding, lasting for a few weeks. Both sotalol and ibutilide have half-lives that range from five to ten hours.

Use in Clinical Settings 
Among the most powerful antidysrhythmics currently available. In addition to ventricular ectopic beats and tachyarrhythmias, atrial fibrillation and flutter are also present. Ibutilide administered intravenously for the treatment of atrial fibrillation and flutter on an acute basis.

Adverse Effects 
The pointes of the Torsades. It is less likely to occur with amiodarone compared to other medications in class III. There is a possibility that amiodarone could result in lung fibrosis, harm to the liver, photosensitive skin rashes, and thyroid dysfunction.