Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Dronedarone is indicated for patients who have previously experienced paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation, but who currently exhibit a normal heart rhythm. This medication is classified as an antiarrhythmic drug. It aids in maintaining a regular heart rhythm and reduces the likelihood of hospitalization due to atrial fibrillation. It is contraindicated for patients with permanent atrial fibrillation due to the elevated risk of severe adverse reactions.
Uses and Dosage
Dronedarone is administered orally in tablet form. It is typically taken twice daily, in conjunction with the morning and evening meals, and should be taken at consistent times each day.
Dronedarone should be consumed precisely as prescribed, and the dosage should not be increased, decreased, or frequency of administration altered without explicit medical direction.
While taking dronedarone, your doctor may prescribe other medications to mitigate the risk of stroke. Such medication must be taken in exact accordance with the instructions provided during your course of treatment.
The effects of dronedarone on heart rhythm regulation are contingent upon continued use. Even if you feel well and have experienced a prolonged period of wellness, do not discontinue taking dronedarone without consulting your physician.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- diarrhea
- heartburn
- weakness
- rash
- redness
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- shortness of breath
- difficulty swallowing or breathing
- wheezing
- chest tightness
- dry cough
- coughing up frothy mucus
- difficulty sleeping due to breathing problems
- need to prop yourself up with extra pillows in order to breathe at night
- weight gain (of 5 or more pounds) in a short period of time
- swelling of the eyes, face, lips, throat, hands, feet or legs
- slowed heartbeat
- fainting
- fever
- flu-like symptoms
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- itching
- unusual bruising or bleeding
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- tiredness or lack of energy
- unusual darkening of the urine
- light colored stools
- sudden severe headache
- sudden complete or partial loss of vision
- weakness or numbness of an arm or leg
- difficulty thinking clearly, remembering, or learning new things
Caution
Prior to initiating dronedarone, patients should inform their physician or pharmacist of any known allergies, including allergies to inactive ingredients, which may cause allergic reactions or other complications.
Before utilizing this medication, patients must disclose their medical history to their physician or pharmacist, with specific attention to liver disease, particular types of irregular heartbeat, and any serious side effects related to taking amiodarone.
Dronedarone may induce QT prolongation, a condition affecting the heart rhythm, which can result in fast or irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, fainting, or other symptoms necessitating immediate medical intervention. The risk of QT prolongation may be heightened by certain medical conditions or the concurrent administration of other drugs that may cause QT prolongation.
Patients must advise their physician or pharmacist of all medications they are taking and any relevant medical conditions, including certain heart problems, a family history of specific heart problems, or low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the adverse effects of dronedarone, including QT prolongation.
Dronedarone must not be used during pregnancy, as it may harm the fetus. Patients must discuss with their physician the use of reliable forms of birth control. If pregnancy occurs or is suspected, patients must notify their physician immediately.
It is unknown whether dronedarone passes into breast milk, and its potential effect on the infant is uncertain. Nursing while using this medication is not recommended, and patients must consult with their physician before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Multaq is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Multaq film-coated tablet:
- 400mg
FAQ
How long does it take to get used to Multaq?
Your body absorbs Multaq within a few hours, but it takes 4 to 8 days of regular use for it to reach full levels (‘steady state’) in the body.
How does Multaq make you feel?
The most common side effects when taking Multaq include stomach problems such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach area pain, and indigestion.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/multaq/what-is
- https://www.multaq.com/discover-multaq/possible-side-effects#:~:text=The%20most%20common%20side%20effects%20when%20taking%20MULTAQ%20include%20stomach,redness%2C%20rash%2C%20and%20itching
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/multaq
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-152656/multaq-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a609034.html
- https://www.drugs.com/multaq.html
