Product Description
Find answers to common questions about our product, including dosage, storage, and side effects.
- Dronedarone is prescribed for individuals who have experienced specific types of irregular heartbeat, such as paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation, but currently maintain a normal heart rhythm.
- Its purpose is to assist in maintaining a regular heart rhythm and reduce the likelihood of hospitalization due to atrial fibrillation.
- Dronedarone is categorized as an antiarrhythmic drug, aiming to stabilize heart rhythm.
- However, it is crucial to note that this medication is contraindicated for individuals with permanent atrial fibrillation due to the heightened risk of severe side effects. Refer to the Warning section for additional information.
- Before starting dronedarone, it’s essential to read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist and consult it with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
- Take dronedarone orally with food, following your doctor’s instructions, usually twice daily (once during your morning meal and once during your evening meal).
- Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while using this medication unless deemed safe by your doctor or pharmacist, as grapefruit can heighten the risk of side effects. Seek further details from your healthcare provider.
- To maximize its benefits, ensure regular intake of this medication. To aid in remembering, take it at the same times daily. Do not discontinue dronedarone without consulting your doctor first, even if you feel well.
- Your doctor may recommend additional medication (a “blood thinner” or anticoagulant) to reduce the risk of serious blood clots. Adhere closely to your doctor’s instructions regarding this.
- Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience a fast or irregular heartbeat or pulse.
- Nausea or diarrhea may occur while using this medication. If either of these effects persists or worsens, inform your doctor promptly.
- It’s important to remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has determined that the benefit outweighs the risk of side effects. Many individuals using this medication do not experience serious side effects.
- Notify your doctor immediately if you encounter any serious side effects, such as symptoms of liver disease (e.g., persistent nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, yellowing of eyes/skin, dark urine), symptoms of lung problems (e.g., persistent dry cough, shortness of breath), or signs of kidney problems (e.g., changes in urine output).
- Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience very serious side effects, including slow/fast/irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, or fainting.
- Although rare, a very severe allergic reaction to this drug may occur. Seek immediate medical help if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as rash, itching/swelling (particularly of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
- Note that this list does not encompass all possible side effects. If you observe any other effects not mentioned above, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
- Before taking dronedarone, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you have, as this product may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications. Consult your pharmacist for further information.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have liver disease, certain types of irregular heartbeat (second- or third-degree atrioventricular block or sick sinus syndrome, unless you have a heart pacemaker), or have experienced serious side effects from taking amiodarone.
- Dronedarone may lead to QT prolongation, a condition affecting heart rhythm, which can rarely result in serious (and occasionally fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms requiring immediate medical attention, such as severe dizziness or fainting.
- The risk of QT prolongation may be heightened if you have specific medical conditions or are taking certain drugs that can cause QT prolongation. Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications you are taking and if you have any of the following conditions: certain heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG), or a family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death).
- Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also increase the risk of QT prolongation. This risk may be elevated by the use of certain drugs (such as diuretics/”water pills”) or certain conditions like severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Discuss with your doctor the safe use of dronedarone in such circumstances.
- Before undergoing surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of this medication, particularly QT prolongation.
- Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is advisable not to become pregnant while using dronedarone, as it may harm an unborn baby. Your doctor may order a pregnancy test before initiating this medication. Inquire about reliable forms of birth control while using this medication and for five days after the last dose. If you become pregnant, consult your doctor immediately regarding the risks and benefits of continuing this medication.
- It is uncertain whether this medication passes into breast milk. Due to the potential risk to the infant, it is not recommended to breastfeed while using this medication and for five days after the last dose. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
| Generic name: | Dronedarone |
|---|---|
| Formulation: | Film Coated Tablet |
| Strength(s): | 400mg |
| Quantities Available: | 60, 120, 180 |
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