Side Effects of amiodarone: A Synthesis of Findings from 17 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Amiodarone is an effective antiarrhythmic drug, but it has been associated with a number of side effects. One of the most common side effects is photosensitivity, which is an increased sensitivity to sunlight. 12 Another common side effect is greyish-blue pigmentation of the skin, especially in areas exposed to light. 12 The side effects of amiodarone can also affect the eyes, including the cornea, lens, retina, and optic nerve. 7 Amiodarone may also cause thyroid dysfunction. Furthermore, amiodarone has been linked to the development of vasculitis. 9

Reasons for Side Effects

The side effects of amiodarone are believed to be caused by the generation of free radicals during the drug's metabolism. 14 Amiodarone can accumulate in the body, and the risk of side effects may increase with long-term use. 15 Amiodarone accumulates in body tissues and this can contribute to the development of side effects. 15 Due to its high lipophilicity, amiodarone is easily stored in cells. This increases the risk of side effects with long-term use. 15

Common Side Effects

Photosensitivity

Photosensitivity can occur with amiodarone, leading to skin redness and inflammation when exposed to sunlight. 12

Greyish-blue Skin Pigmentation

Greyish-blue pigmentation of the skin, particularly on areas exposed to light, such as the face and the back of the hands, can occur with amiodarone. 12

Corneal Opacity

Corneal opacity is another side effect of amiodarone. This occurs as amiodarone accumulates in the corneal cells. Vision is usually not affected. 7

Lens Opacity

Amiodarone can also lead to lens opacity. Vision is often not impacted, but in rare cases, it can cause vision loss. 7

Retinopathy

Retinopathy can be a side effect of amiodarone. This can lead to vision loss and visual field narrowing. 7

Optic Neuropathy

Optic neuropathy is another potential side effect of amiodarone, which can cause vision loss and visual field narrowing. 7

Thyroid Dysfunction

Amiodarone can interfere with thyroid hormone production and lead to thyroid dysfunction.

Vasculitis

Vasculitis can be a side effect of amiodarone, resulting in skin rash and pain. 9

Countermeasures for Side Effects

Countermeasures for Photosensitivity

When exposed to sunlight, it is important to take measures such as applying sunscreen, wearing a hat and sunglasses. 12

Countermeasures for Greyish-blue Skin Pigmentation

Skin pigmentation often gradually fades after discontinuing amiodarone. 12

Countermeasures for Corneal Opacity

Corneal opacity often gradually improves after discontinuing amiodarone. If vision is affected, consult an ophthalmologist. 7

Countermeasures for Lens Opacity

Lens opacity may not improve even after discontinuing amiodarone. If vision is affected, consult an ophthalmologist. 7

Countermeasures for Retinopathy

Retinopathy may improve after discontinuing amiodarone. If vision is affected, consult an ophthalmologist. 7

Countermeasures for Optic Neuropathy

Optic neuropathy may improve after discontinuing amiodarone. If vision is affected, consult an ophthalmologist. 7

Countermeasures for Thyroid Dysfunction

If thyroid dysfunction is suspected, regular thyroid function tests should be performed and treatment should be received as needed.

Countermeasures for Vasculitis

If vasculitis is suspected, consult a doctor and receive appropriate treatment. 9

Comparison of Studies

Commonalities of Studies

Multiple studies have reported photosensitivity, greyish-blue skin pigmentation, corneal opacity, lens opacity, retinopathy, optic neuropathy, thyroid dysfunction, and vasculitis as side effects of amiodarone.

Differences in Studies

The incidence and severity of side effects vary among studies. This is thought to be due to differences in the age, sex, duration of use, and dosage of amiodarone among study subjects.

Precautions for Real-life Applications

Amiodarone is an effective antiarrhythmic drug, but many side effects have been reported. If you are taking amiodarone, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor and have regular checkups while taking the medication. In particular, when exposed to sunlight, it is important to take measures to prevent photosensitivity, such as applying sunscreen and wearing a hat and sunglasses.

Limitations of Current Research

Research on the side effects of amiodarone is still not sufficient. Further research is needed, especially on the effects of long-term use and individual differences in side effects.

Future Research Directions

Research on the mechanism of amiodarone's side effects, predictive factors for side effects, and methods to prevent and treat side effects is needed.

Conclusion

Amiodarone is an effective antiarrhythmic drug, but many side effects have been reported. If you are taking amiodarone, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor and have regular checkups.

Literature analysis of 17 papers
Positive Content
10
Neutral Content
4
Negative Content
3
Article Type
1
0
0
8
16
1.

Dronedarone for maintenance of sinus rhythm in atrial fibrillation or flutter.

Author: SinghBramah N, ConnollyStuart J, CrijnsHarry J G M, RoyDenis, KoweyPeter R, CapucciAlessandro, RadzikDavid, AliotEtienne M, HohnloserStefan H,

Reduced ventricular rate
Sinus rhythm maintenance
Pulmonary toxic effects
Thyroid and liver dysfunction

Dronedarone was significantly more effective than placebo in maintaining sinus rhythm and reducing ventricular rate during recurrence of arrhythmia. There was no evidence that dronedarone increased the risk of pulmonary toxicity, thyroid dysfunction, or liver dysfunction.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

2.

Myoclonic Jerks and Ataxia: A Case of Rare Neurological Side Effects of Amiodarone.

Author: Milan-OrtizVanessa, DamughatlaAnirudh R, KamathamSaivaishnavi, JawadZain N, ShakoorShakeela

Treats arrhythmias
Balance impairment
Tremors

This case report discussed the neurotoxic side effects of amiodarone, a medication used for supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias. It highlighted the importance of a complete physical examination when starting amiodarone therapy.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.

Language : English

4.

[Ocular side-effects associated with amiodarone therapy].

Author: TurdumambetovaG, BredehornT, DunckerG I W

Corneal inclusions
Lens opacities
Optic neuropathy

Amiodarone is a drug used to treat irregular heartbeat. While it is effective in controlling arrhythmia, it can also cause side effects, such as corneal inclusions, lens opacities, and optic neuropathy.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : German

5.

Stroke patients: do they have a predilection for extrapyramidal side effects from amiodarone?

Author: KatrakP H

Extrapyramidal Features
Neurotoxicity

This report describes two patients who developed extrapyramidal features after recent stroke while receiving amiodarone for atrial fibrillation. Discontinuation of amiodarone resulted in gradual improvement of these side effects. This highlights the potential neurotoxicity of amiodarone in patients with recent neurological impairment.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

7.

Ocular side effects of amiodarone.

Author: MäntyjärviM, TuppurainenK, IkäheimoK

Antiarrhythmic effect
Corneal opacities
Lens opacities
Optic neuropathy
Retinopathy

Amiodarone, an antiarrhythmic agent, can cause corneal and lens opacities, but these typically do not impair visual acuity. Optic neuropathy is a rare but potentially serious side effect.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

8.

[Non-thyroidal side effects of amiodarone].

Author: CrepletJ

Antiarrhythmic efficacy
Non-thyroidal side effects

Amiodarone can cause non-thyroidal side effects, including pulmonary, hepatic, and cutaneous problems. Careful monitoring and management are necessary to prevent major toxicities.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : French

9.

Amiodarone-induced vasculitis and a review of the cutaneous side-effects of amiodarone.

Author: DootsonG, ByattC

Treatment of cardiac arrhythmias
Photosensitivity
Skin pigmentation
Vasculitis

Amiodarone, an anti-arrhythmic drug, was found to cause common skin reactions such as photosensitivity and pigmentation, with rare cases of leucocytoclastic vasculitis.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

10.

Side effects with amiodarone therapy.

Author: ShuklaR, JowettN I, ThompsonD R, PohlJ E

Treatment of arrhythmias
Cutaneous side effects
Thyroid dysfunction

Amiodarone, an anti-arrhythmic drug, was found to have a high incidence of side effects, with neither serum amiodarone level nor its metabolite level having predictive power for the occurrence of these effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

11.

[Prevention of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation with propafenone after withdrawal of amiodarone because of side effects].

Author: TarquiniiM, LolliC, FoscoliM, GiofrèR, LabriolaE, ToschiG P

Prophylaxis of atrial fibrillation
Well tolerated
No significant difference from amiodarone

Propafenon (P) is a valid therapeutic resource for treatment of recurrent paroxysmall atrial fibrillation (AF), and is well tolerated during medium-term application.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : Italian

12.

Skin side-effects of amiodarone therapy.

Author: EttlerK, GregorJ, PidrmanV, SubrtováD, Nozi ckováM

Antiarrhythmic effect
Hyperpigmentation
Photosensitivity

Amiodarone, an antiarrhythmic drug, induced photosensitivity and greyish-blue hyperpigmentation in 9.4% of patients in a study. Histological examination confirmed these findings.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

13.

[Possibilities of antioxidant therapy in the prevention of side effects of amiodarone].

Author: VereckeiA, FehérE, GyörgyI, FóldiákG, TóthM, ToncsevH, FehérJ

Reduced phospholipoidosis
Lysosomal phospholipoidosis

Amiodarone, an antiarrhythmic drug, generated a very reactive phenyl radical, which contributed to lysosomal phospholipoidosis. Silibinin, a flavonoid antioxidant, significantly decreased lysosomal phospholipoidosis but did not completely prevent its accumulation.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : Hungarian

14.

[The role of oxidative stress, caused by amiodarone, in the side effects of the drug].

Author: VereckeiA, BlázovicsA, SzénásiG, KónyaL, LángI, ZsinkaA, FehérJ

Free radical generation
Free radical generation
Lipid peroxidation

Amiodarone generated free radicals in vitro and in vivo, suggesting its involvement in the drug's side effects.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : Hungarian

15.

Side effects from amiodarone.

Author: WilsonJ S, PodridP J

Treat arrhythmias
Many side effects
Serious side effects

Amiodarone causes many side effects involving all organ systems, some of which are serious.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

16.

Long-term follow-up of amiodarone therapy in the young: continued efficacy, unimpaired growth, moderate side effects.

Author: GuccioneP, PaulT, GarsonA

Arrhythmia treatment
Hepatitis
Hypertension
Keratopathy
Neuropathy
Proarrhythmia
Rash
Thyroid dysfunction
Vomiting

Amiodarone is effective in treating various arrhythmias in young patients, but may cause side effects, including keratopathy, thyroid dysfunction, and hepatitis.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

17.

Anti-amiodarone antibodies: detection and relationship to the development of side effects.

Author: PichlerW J, SchindlerL, StäubliM, StadlerB M, de WeckA L

Sensitive detection assay

An immunodot technique was developed for detecting anti-amiodarone antibodies, potentially contributing to the understanding of amiodarone-induced side effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

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