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Amiodarone

Prescription
Class III Antiarrhythmic
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Interactions
4 documented
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Prolongs action potential duration and effective refractory period by blocking potassium channels (Class III). Also has Class I (sodium channel), Class II (beta-blocking), and Class IV (calcium channel) properties.

At a glance

Class
Class III Antiarrhythmic
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for refractory ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias
Dose
10–15 mg/kg
Route
PO, IV
Frequency
q12h (loading) then q24h (maintenance)
🐈

Cat

Very limited feline data
Dose
5–10 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
—
Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Hepatic enzymes q2–4 weeks initiallyThyroid panel q3–6 monthsECGChest radiographs annually

Interactions

Major — 4

Digoxin
major
Amiodarone increases digoxin levels by 70-100% via P-glycoprotein inhibition, CYP3A4 inhibition, and reduced renal clearance.
Management: Reduce digoxin dose by 50% when initiating amiodarone. Monitor digoxin levels closely.
Diltiazem
major
Amiodarone + diltiazem: additive negative chronotropic and dromotropic effects. Risk of severe bradycardia and AV block.
Management: Avoid combination. If used, continuous ECG monitoring essential.
Propranolol
major
Amiodarone + beta-blocker: additive bradycardia and AV block. Amiodarone also inhibits beta-blocker metabolism.
Management: If combined, use lowest beta-blocker dose and monitor ECG closely.
Sotalol
major
Both prolong QT interval via different mechanisms (sotalol: Class III K+ channel; amiodarone: multi-class). Combined use markedly increases torsades de pointes risk.
Management: Avoid combination. If both antiarrhythmics needed, use under cardiologist supervision with continuous ECG monitoring.

Brands

Other markets

Cordarone
Pacerone

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Amiodarone?
Amiodarone is a class iii antiarrhythmic used in pets. Prolongs action potential duration and effective refractory period by blocking potassium channels (Class III). Also has Class I (sodium channel), Class II (beta-blocking), and Class IV (calcium channel) properties.
›What is Amiodarone used for in pets?
Amiodarone is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for refractory ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias; Very limited feline data.
›What is the Amiodarone dose for dogs?
For dogs, Amiodarone is typically dosed as follows — Used for refractory ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias: 10–15 mg/kg PO/IV q12h (loading) then q24h (maintenance). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Amiodarone dose for cats?
For cats, Amiodarone is typically dosed as follows — Very limited feline data: 5–10 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Amiodarone need a prescription?
Yes. Amiodarone is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →