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[Skin adverse effects of amiodarone]
S Zgazarová1, H Jedlicková, V Vasků
1I. dermatovenerologická klinika Lékarské fakulty MU a FN u sv. Anny Brno. simonazg@seznam.cz
Amiodarone, an antiarrhythmic drug, can cause skin hyperpigmentation, particularly a slate-grey discoloration. This side effect is linked to amiodarone accumulation in the skin and is more common in sun-exposed areas.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Dermatology
- Cardiology
Background:
- Amiodarone, a widely used antiarrhythmic medication since the 1960s, is a benzofuran derivative containing iodine.
- Its primary metabolite is mono-N-desethylamiodarone.
- This drug treats supraventricular and ventricular tachyarrhythmias.
Observation:
- This review details three cases of hyperpigmentation in elderly men using amiodarone.
- Skin side effects are a known issue with amiodarone treatment.
- Reported incidence of amiodarone-induced side effects ranges widely from 16% to 98%.
Findings:
- Amiodarone can cause slate-grey skin hyperpigmentation, a less common but notable side effect.
- This pigmentation is frequently observed on light-exposed skin areas not protected from the sun.
- The incidence of amiodarone-induced slate-grey pigmentation is estimated between 2% and 57%.
Implications:
- Hyperpigmentation results from the accumulation of amiodarone and its metabolites within the skin.
- Clinicians should be aware of the potential for skin discoloration as an adverse effect of amiodarone.
- Monitoring for dermatological side effects is crucial in patients undergoing amiodarone therapy.
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