Learn about the side effects of amiodarone, from common to rare, for consumers and healthcare professionals. Amiodarone is used to treat life-threatening heart rhythm problems called ventricular arrhythmias. This medicine is used in patients who have already been treated with other medicines that did not work well. Amiodarone belongs to the group of medicines known as antiarrhythmics. View amiodarone hydrochloride information, including dose, uses, side-effects, pregnancy, breast feeding, contra-indications, monitoring requirements and important safety information. Amiodarone is a medication that prevents and treats an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). It works by stabilizing your heart’s rhythm. How can UpToDate help you? Select the option that best describes you. Sign up today to receive the latest news and updates from UpToDate. © 2026 UpToDate, Inc. and/or its affiliates. All Rights Reserved. Amiodarone is a frequently prescribed anti-arrhythmic medication. Amiodarone is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifically for the treatment of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Amiodarone is commonly used to treat different types of abnormal heart rhythms, such as atrial arrhythmias (supraventricular arrhythmias) and ventricular arrhythmias. [13] Amiodarone is used to treat ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation. Amiodarone is for use only in treating life-threatening heart rhythm disorders. Amiodarone can cause dangerous side effects on your heart, liver, lungs, or vision. What is amiodarone used for? Amiodarone is commonly used to prevent and treat certain types of serious (and sometimes life-threatening) arrhythmias called ventricular fibrillation and. Amiodarone is used to treat certain types of serious (possibly fatal) irregular heartbeat (such as persistent ventricular fibrillation/tachycardia). It is used to restore normal heart rhythm and maintain a regular, steady heartbeat. Amiodarone is known as an anti-arrhythmic drug.