Ventricular fibrillation refers to a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats at a fast and erratic pace. The Mayo Clinic says that signs of ventricular fibrillation include chest pain, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath and a fast heartbeat. Fortunately, medications for ventricular fibrillation can decrease these symptoms.
Amiodarone
Amiodarone, commonly sold as Cordarone or Pacerone, is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as antiarrythmics. According to Drugs.com, amiodarone restores the heart's rhythm to its normal state. This medication specifically treats ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. Amiodarone is a tablet taken one or two times daily.
Mild side effects include vomiting, nausea, a lack of coordination, weakness and trouble sleeping; serious side effects include chest pain, wheezing, weight loss, numbness and blurry vision. Those experiencing serious side effects should phone their doctor.
Suffering from asthma, visual problems, high or low blood pressure or a thyroid disorder may require a decrease in amiodarone's dose; patients suffering from these conditions should inform their doctor.
Epinephrine
Epinephrine, commonly sold as Adrenalin, is another medication that treats ventricular fibrillation. It also treats potentially fatal allergic reactions. This medication dilates blood vessels to allow more blood flow through the body. Epinephrine is an injection given as needed.
According to drugs.com, epinephrine's side effects include vomiting, nausea, difficulty breathing, pounding in the ears and difficulty breathing; patients experiencing these symptoms should phone a doctor.
Suffering from high blood pressure, blood vessel problems or an overactive thyroid are just some of the medical conditions that may decrease epinephrine's effectiveness.
Procainamide
Procainamide, commonly sold as Procanbid, is another medication used to treat abnormal heart rhythm disorders such as ventricular fibrillation. MedlinePlus indicates that this medication is also an antiarrythmic drug that restores the heart's rhythm to normal. Procainamide is a capsule or tablet taken every 3 to 12 hours as indicated.
Procainamide's milder side effects include stomach problems, vomiting, a poor appetite, a bitter taste and dizziness. Its serious side effects include an allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction include hives, trouble breathing and swelling of the tongue, face or lips. Patients experiencing these symptoms should go to the emergency room immediately.
Taking medications such as digoxin may require a decrease in procainamide's dose.
Member Comments