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Drug

Dronedarone

Common brand names:

Multaq

Pronounced

"DROE-NE-da-rone"

Uses

This medication is used if you have had certain types of irregular heartbeat (paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation) in the past but now have a normal heart rhythm. It helps you keep a normal heart rhythm and lowers your chance of having to go to the hospital for atrial fibrillation. Dronedarone is known as an antiarrhythmic drug.

This medication should not be used if you have permanent atrial fibrillation because of the increased risk of very serious side effects. See also Warning section.

Warning

Do not take this medication if you have severe heart failure that makes you short of breath during light activity or even while resting, or if you recently had to stay in a hospital because your heart failure got worse. Also, do not take this medication if you have a certain kind of irregular heartbeat (permanent atrial fibrillation) that will not or cannot be changed back to a normal heart rhythm. Dronedarone may increase your risk of death, stroke, or the need to be treated in the hospital for heart failure if you have any of these conditions. Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss the risks and benefits of dronedarone. Tell your doctor right away if you have new or worsening symptoms of heart failure such as shortness of breath, swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, unusual/sudden weight gain.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking dronedarone and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with food as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily (once with your morning meal and once with your evening meal).

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. Do not stop taking dronedarone without asking your doctor first. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Your doctor may direct you to also take another medication ("blood thinner"/anticoagulant) to lower the risk of getting serious blood clots. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Get medical help right away if your heartbeat or pulse becomes fast or irregular.

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

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Information expires December 2025.