What is one common adverse effect of amiodarone?

Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic medication primarily used to treat various types of serious arrhythmias. One of its common adverse effects is bradycardia, which refers to a slower-than-normal heart rate. This occurs because amiodarone affects the electrical conduction system of the heart, particularly by prolonging the conduction time and increasing the refractory period. This can lead to the heart beating more slowly than intended, which is clinically significant particularly in patients with existing conduction abnormalities or those who are taking other medications that also slow heart rate.

Bradycardia can manifest as symptoms including dizziness, fatigue, or syncope, making it important for healthcare providers to monitor heart rates closely when a patient is on amiodarone. The understanding of this side effect is crucial for safe and effective administration of the drug, highlighting the need for careful patient assessment and monitoring during therapy.