Which of the following statements is correct regarding the use of amiodarone?

Prepare for the Lippincott Pharmacology Exam with interactive flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each accompanied by detailed hints and explanations. Master your exam with ease!

The statement about monitoring for hepatic toxicity when using amiodarone is accurate. Amiodarone is known for its extensive side effect profile, and hepatic toxicity is one of the significant concerns. Liver function tests should be regularly monitored due to the potential for elevated liver enzymes and, in some cases, severe liver injury. This need for monitoring is particularly emphasized when doses exceed 400 mg per day or in patients with pre-existing liver disorders.

Regarding the other statements, while amiodarone can be used cautiously in patients with heart failure, especially if they have a specific arrhythmia that requires treatment, it doesn't carry an absolute contraindication. The therapeutic index of amiodarone is not considered particularly high; it has a moderate therapeutic index, meaning the range between effective and toxic doses can be narrower than ideal. Lastly, while amiodarone is highly effective in managing certain arrhythmias, it may not be classified as less effective than most antiarrhythmic agents; rather, it is often considered one of the most effective options for specific arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia, especially in emergency settings.

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