The heart drug Cordarone is associated with severe lung damage, pulmonary toxicity, vision problems, blindness, and even death. Due to the risk of side effects, the FDA says it should only be used as a last resort.
What is Cordarone?
Cordarone is a heart drug for people with severe irregular heart rhythm. It was developed by Wyeth-Ayerst, which is now owned by Pfizer. It was approved in 1995 by the FDA and is now available as a generic medication, amiodarone.
What is the problem?
According to an FDA Safety Waring, Cordarone should only be used after other treatments have failed due to the risk of life-threatening side effects. Furthermore, these side effects may persist for months after Cordarone is discontinued.
Symptoms of Worsening Heart Problems
- Light-headedness
- Fainting
- Irregular heartbeat
- Heart palpitations
Symptoms of Lung Toxicity
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Irritating cough
- Coughing up blood
Other Severe Side Effects
- Fatigue
- Vision problems
- Numbness
- Loss of muscle coordination in arms and legs
FDA Warning: Cordarone + Zocor
Combining Cordarone (amiodarone) with more than 20-mg of simvastatin per day may increase the risk of life-threatening muscle injuries, including rhabdomyolysis. The FDA published a Drug Safety Communication in December 2011 with warnings about this risk.
Rhabdomyolysis
Combining Cordarone + simvastatin in high doses is associated with an increased risk of degenerative muscle disease. Mild cases cause muscle aches and weakness. Without treatment, it can lead to life-threatening kidney damage and rhabdomyolysis, or severe degenerative muscle disease.
Cordarone Side Effects
Cordarone is associated with some serious side effects that can lead to death. The Medication Guide lists the following side effects:
- Lung damage
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Liver damage
- Worse irregular heart rhythm
- Thyroid disorders
- Vision problems
- Blindness
- Nerve problems, such as weakness, numbness, tingling
- Uncontrolled movements
- Skin reactions
- And more
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