AntiarrhythmicPrescription only
Amiodarone
Tablet or injection
Quick Summary
Amiodarone controls abnormal heart rhythms but has many side effects, so it needs monitoring.
Atrial fibrillation
Dangerous ventricular rhythms
Medical Uses
Atrial fibrillation: Rhythm control.
Dangerous ventricular rhythms: Prevention.
How it's taken
Take exactly as prescribed with regular check-ups.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you and how long to take it.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.
Common Side Effects
Sun sensitivity
Skin may turn blue-grey.
Eye deposits
Usually harmless.
Thyroid problems
Monitored.
Interactions
Warfarin and digoxin
Levels rise.
Statins
Muscle risk.
Critical Warnings
Lung, liver and thyroid problems
Black Box Warning: Regular blood tests and checks needed.
Breathlessness
Report new cough or breathlessness.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Amiodarone: drug information(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine