Antiarrhythmics
PREGNANCY CATEGORY C
Therapeutic actions
Antiarrhythmics act at specific sites to alter the action potential of cardiac cells and interfere with the electrical excitability of the heart. Most of these drugs may cause new or worsened arrhythmias (proarrhythmic effect) and must be used with caution and with continual cardiac monitoring and patient evaluation.
Indications
Treatment of tachycardia when rapid but short-term control of ventricular rate is desirable (patients with atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, in both perioperative and postoperative situations)
Treatment of noncompensatory tachycardia when heart rate requires specific intervention
Treatment of atrial arrhythmias
Contraindications and Cautions
There are no contraindications; reserve for emergency situations.
Use cautiously during pregnancy or lactation.
Adverse Effects
CNS: Light-headedness, speech disorder, midscapular pain, weakness, rigors, somnolence, confusion
CV: Hypotension, pallor, arrhythmias
GI: Taste perversion
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