About vernakalant hydrochloride
Antiarrhythmic; atrial-selective ion-channel blocker
Used for
- Rapid conversion of recent-onset atrial fibrillation to normal heart rhythm in adults.
Usual adult dose
Initial 3 mg/kg IV over 10 minutes; if atrial fibrillation persists after 15 minutes, give 2 mg/kg over 10 minutes. Maximum total dose 5 mg/kg.
Common side effects
- Taste disturbance
- Sneezing
- Nausea
- Low blood pressure
Important warnings
- Given by intravenous infusion with continuous heart-rhythm and blood-pressure monitoring.
- Do not use with severe aortic stenosis, very low blood pressure, or recent acute coronary syndrome.
- Can cause serious abnormal heart rhythms; observe for at least 15 minutes after infusion.
- Not for long-standing atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter.
Pregnancy
Use during pregnancy only if clearly necessary; human safety information is limited.
Breastfeeding
Whether vernakalant passes into human milk is unknown; use caution.
Interactions
- Avoid intravenous class I or III antiarrhythmics within four hours before or after treatment.
- Other medicines affecting heart rhythm or blood pressure may increase risks.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.