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Use of amiodarone during pregnancy
Postgraduate Medical Journal
|January 1, 1985
Summary
Amiodarone use during pregnancy showed limited placental transfer and resulted in normal infant outcomes in two cases, even with long-term maternal therapy. However, caution is advised due to insufficient data on amiodarone
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic drug.
- Its use during pregnancy is limited due to potential fetal risks.
- Extended duration of amiodarone therapy in pregnancy has not been well-documented.
Observation:
- Two pregnant patients received amiodarone for extended periods.
- Placental transfer of amiodarone and its metabolite (desethylamiodarone) was assessed.
- Pregnancy outcomes were monitored for both mother and child.
Findings:
- Limited placental transfer of amiodarone and desethylamiodarone was observed.
- Both pregnancies resulted in the birth of healthy infants.
- One infant was exposed to amiodarone throughout the entire gestation period.
Implications:
- Amiodarone may have a lower risk profile in pregnancy than previously assumed.
- Further research is needed to confirm safety and efficacy.
- Clinical decisions regarding amiodarone in pregnancy require careful consideration of limited data.
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