DRUG INTERACTIONS: This drug should not be used with the following medications because very serious interactions may occur: agalsidase beta, dofetilide, certain HIV protease inhibitors (nelfinavir, ritonavir), quinupristin/dalfopristin. If you are currently using any of these medications, tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting amiodarone. Other drugs besides amiodarone which may affect the heart rhythm (QTc prolongation in the EKG) include flecainide, disopyramide, pimozide, quinidine, sotalol, procainamide, and sparfloxacin among others. QTc prolongation can infrequently result in serious, rarely fatal, irregular heartbeats. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details. Ask for instructions about whether you need to stop any other QTc-prolonging drugs you may be using in order to minimize the risk of this effect. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of: local and general anesthesia, "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin), cimetidine, cyclosporine, digoxin, fentanyl, heart medications (e.g., diltiazem, verapamil, beta-blockers such as propranolol), other HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., amprenavir, indinavir), methotrexate, phenytoin, rifampin, "statins" (e.g., lovastatin, simvastatin), St. John's wort. Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while being treated with this medication unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include weakness, severe dizziness, unusually slow heartbeat, or fainting.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
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• Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs) - Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are caused by heart attack, high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy, heart valve disease, medications, and more.

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