Role of amiodarone in the treatment of fetal supraventricular tachyarrhythmias and hydrops fetalis.

Abstract

We report three consecutive hydropic fetuses with fetal tachyarrhythmias treated with amiodarone-two in combination with digoxin and one with digoxin, procainamide, and propranolol. Sinus rhythm was achieved in one case and ventricular rate control was achieved in two cases. All fetuses treated with amiodarone gradually improved. Observed side effects of amiodarone were a maternal rash in one mother and transient neonatal hypothyroidism in one infant. We conclude that amiodarone might be effective and safe for fetal tachyarrhythmias and impending hydrops. The small number of patients suggests that a multicenter cooperative approach is required in order to determine if this is correct.

• Authors: A Khositseth, K D Ramin, P W O'Leary, C J Porter
• Journal: Pediatric cardiology (Pediatr Cardiol) 2003 Sep-Oct Vol. 24 Issue 5 Pg. 454-6 ISSN: 0172-0643 [Print] United States
• PMID: 14627312 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Anti-Arrhythmia Agents
• Amiodarone

Topics

• Amiodarone (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Anti-Arrhythmia Agents (therapeutic use)
• Female
• Fetal Diseases (drug therapy)
• Humans
• Hydrops Fetalis (drug therapy)
• Pregnancy
• Tachycardia, Supraventricular (drug therapy, embryology)