Dronedarone, Multaq
Description: Antiarrhythmic, Class III
“Alert: Black Box Warning
Increase Risk of Death, Stroke and Heart Failure
Dronedarone, Multaq is contraindicated in patients with symptomatic heart failure with recent decompensation requiring hospitalization or New York Heart Association (NYHA) class IV heart failure. Dronedarone, Multaq doubles the risk of death in these patients. Dronedarone, Multaq is contraindicated in patients in atrial fibrillation (AF) who will not or cannot be cardioverted into normal sinus rhythm.”
CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship
How Does It Work
Dronedarone, Multaq is a noniodinated antiarrhythmic agent structurally related to amiodarone exhibiting properties of all 4 antiarrhythmic classes. Dronedarone, Multaq decreases AV conduction and sinus node function through inhibition of calcium channels and beta-receptor blocking activity.
Indications For Use
Paroxysmal or Persistent Atrial Fibrillation
Precautions
Before starting Dronedarone, Multaq makes sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take. Dronedarone, Multaq can cause a new-onset or worsen of heart failure, acute liver injury, QT prolongation, interstitial lung disease including pulmonary fibrosis and pneumonitis.
Usual Dosing
Oral: 400mg twice daily with meals.
Pharmacist Tips On Using
Oral: Administer with morning and evening meals.
Side Effects
Prolonged QT interval, allergic dermatitis, eczema, pruritis, skin rash, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, vomiting, weakness.
Note this is not a complete list of side effects for Dronedarone, Multaq only common ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would my physician prescribe a medication with such serious side effects?
Your physician takes the most recent clinical guidelines to make evidence-based decisions on what medication is appropriate in which situations. Your current medications, your allergies, age, cost of medication, comorbid conditions and many other factors will further complicate or limit which medications are appropriate. This medication is used for many serious conditions and your physician has determined the benefits outweigh the risks. Furthermore, they will be monitoring your bloodwork and symptoms closely to see if any serious complications are starting to arise and be able to adjust therapy to prevent progression.