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Cardiac function in patients on chronic amiodarone therapy.
American Heart Journal
|August 1, 1985
Summary
Amiodarone, an antiarrhythmic drug, was studied for its chronic effects on heart function. Results show amiodarone does not depress left ventricular function, making it safe for patients with impaired heart function.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antiarrhythmic agents can negatively impact cardiac contractility and exacerbate heart failure.
- Limited data exist on the long-term effects of amiodarone on myocardial function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the chronic effects of amiodarone on cardiac function in patients.
- To assess amiodarone's impact on left ventricular function over a 3-month period.
Main Methods:
- 41 patients with radionuclide angiography before and after 3 months of amiodarone therapy.
- Analysis of heart rate, blood pressure, and ejection fraction (EF).
Main Results:
- No significant changes in heart rate or blood pressure were observed.
- Mean ejection fraction remained stable (36% +/- 19 to 36% +/- 17), with no significant change (p < 0.05).
- No correlation found between amiodarone dose or baseline EF and changes in EF.
Conclusions:
- Amiodarone does not appear to depress left ventricular function.
- The drug can be safely administered to patients with mild to moderate left ventricular dysfunction.
- Serial monitoring of left ventricular function may not be necessary for patients with stable function.