Apo-Amiodarone Tablet

Amiodarone Hydrochloride Tablets (200 mg): Class III Antiarrhythmic

Amiodarone hydrochloride is a potent Antiarrhythmic medication used to treat life-threatening heart rhythm disturbances. While it is originally approved for human use, veterinarians utilize it on an extra-label basis primarily in dogs. Amiodarone works by prolonging the electrical impulse in the heart muscle and blocking certain ion channels, which helps to stabilize the heart rate and maintain a normal rhythm. In veterinary medicine, it is typically reserved for complex cases of ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias that have not responded to other treatments.

Key Information

• Active Ingredient: Amiodarone hydrochloride (200 mg).

• Approved Species (Original Licensing): Human.

• Common Veterinary Species: Dog (used extra-label).

• Uses: Antiarrhythmic; used to manage severe cardiac arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation.

• Form: Pink, flat-faced, beveled edge tablet, engraved “AMI” over “200” and “APO”.

• Route of Administration: Oral.

Prescription Required

Amiodarone is a prescription-only medication. A valid prescription from a licensed veterinarian is required for purchase. Due to the high risk of side effects—which can include liver toxicity, thyroid dysfunction, and gastrointestinal upset—this medication requires strict professional supervision. A veterinarian must perform baseline blood work (liver and thyroid panels) and regular follow-up ECGs (electrocardiograms) to ensure the medication is stabilizing the heart rhythm safely without causing systemic harm.