Multaq also known by its generic name dronedarone, is a heart rhythm medicine that helps certain people with life-threatening atrial rhythm disorders and maintains normal heartbeats (the upper chambers of the heart that allow blood to flow into the heart).

It reduces the chance of needing to be hospitalized for a heart rhythm disorder known as atrial fibrillation.

What are the Uses of Multaq Tablet?

Multaq (dronedarone) is an antiarrhythmic medication primarily prescribed to treat certain heart rhythm disorders. It helps reduce the need for hospitalization in affected patients.

  • Treats atrial fibrillation (AF) - irregular and rapid heartbeat
  • Helps manage atrial flutter - another type of abnormal rhythm
  • Reduces the risk of hospitalization due to these conditions
  • Supports normal rhythm in the upper chambers of the heart

Secondary Uses of Multaq

Although not commonly used for other conditions, Multaq may occasionally be prescribed for related cardiac rhythm issues under close supervision.

How Does Multaq 400 MG Tablets Work (Mechanism of Action)?

Multaq works by stabilizing the heart's electrical activity to help maintain a steady rhythm and prevent irregular heartbeats.

  • Blocks abnormal electrical signals that cause irregular heartbeats
  • Helps the heart beat at a normal, controlled pace
  • Belongs to the antiarrhythmic class of medicines
  • Reduces risk of complications like stroke or heart failure in AF patients

Dosage Instructions of Multaq

Multaq is only available as a 400 mg oral tablet and is not available in other forms such as injection, syrup, or suspension.

It's important to follow your doctor's instructions exactly when taking Multaq to ensure safe and effective results.

How to Use Multaq 400 MG?

  • Multaq 400 mg tablets should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It should be consumed with food.
  • While taking this medication, your blood pressure and heart rate may need to be monitored on a regular basis.
  • You must continue to take it until your doctor determines that it is safe to discontinue.
  • If you stop taking this medication, you may experience dangerous irregular heartbeats, which can be fatal.

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Multaq?

  • If you forget to take one of the dosages, take it as soon as you remember.
  • Skip the missed dose and proceed with your daily schedule.
  • To cope up with a missed dose, do not take a double dose.

What Happens If I Take an Overdose?

Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed tablets there is a chance of getting a harmful effect on your body's functions.

Symptoms may include:

Call your doctor or visit the nearest emergency room if overdosed

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What Are the Side Effects of Multaq Tablet?

Like any medication, Multaq 400 mg can cause side effects. Most are mild, but some may require medical attention.

Common side effects of Multaq

Less common side effects of Multaq

  • Acid or sour stomach
  • Belching
  • Blistering
  • Crusting
  • Irritation
  • Reddening of the skin
  • Cracked, dry, or scaly skin
  • Heartburn
  • Indigestion
  • Itching skin
  • Rash
  • Discoloration of the skin
  • Encrusted, scaly, and oozing
  • Hives itching
  • Stomach discomfort
  • Upset or pain
  • Swelling

Serious side effects of Multaq

  • Heart failure symptoms (shortness of breath, swollen ankles)
  • Sudden weight gain
  • Yellowing of skin/eyes (possible liver issue)

Precautions for Multaq

This medicine should be used carefully under medical supervision, especially if you have other health conditions or are taking other medications.

  • It may cause vision blurring. Avoid driving or any activity that requires concentration until you know how it affects you.
  • It makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight. When going outside, use sunscreen and wear protective clothing.
  • While you are taking this medication, your doctor may perform routine blood tests, chest X-rays, ECGs, eye tests, thyroid, liver, and lung function tests.
  • Contact your doctor right away if you notice shortness of breath, swelling in your ankles or feet, or unexpected weight gain.
  • It is most likely safe to use in patients with kidney disease. Based on the available data, it may not be necessary to adjust the dose in these patients. Please consult your physician.
  • It should be used with caution in patients with severe liver disease. The dosage may need to be adjusted. Please consult your physician.

Alcohol or Food Interactions

Take Multaq with food for better absorption. Avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of side effects or interfere with the medicine's effectiveness.

Possible Interactions with Other Medications

Inform your doctor about all the medicines you take to avoid harmful interactions with Multaq.

  • Can interact with other heart rhythm medications
  • May react with antibiotics, antifungals, or certain antidepressants
  • Avoid combining with herbal supplements unless approved by your doctor

Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medications while taking Multaq.

How Should Multaq Be Stored?

Store this medicine properly to maintain its effectiveness and avoid risks due to damage or contamination.

  • Store at room temperature (below 30°C)
  • Keep away from moisture, sunlight, and heat
  • Do not freeze
  • Keep out of reach of children and pets
  • Do not use expired tablets

Multaq vs Amiodarone

Multaq Amiodarone
Multaq (dronedarone) is a heart rhythm medicine that helps certain people with life-threatening atrial rhythm disorders maintain normal heartbeats. Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic medication that is used for treating and preventing a variety of irregular heartbeats.
This is an antiarrhythmic medication used to treat atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter, both of which are types of abnormal heart rhythms. It is used to treat and prevent certain types of severe, potentially fatal ventricular arrhythmias.
It works by preventing abnormal electrical signals from reaching the heart. This helps control your heart's irregular beating and allows it to beat normally. Amiodarone primarily works by inhibiting potassium rectifier currents, which are responsible for heart repolarization during phase 3 of the cardiac action potential.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The typical dose is 400 mg twice a day (total 800 mg daily). Do not exceed this unless advised by your doctor.

Yes, in rare cases, Multaq may cause liver injury. Regular liver function tests are recommended during treatment.

Multaq and Flecainide are both used for abnormal heart rhythms but have different mechanisms, side effects, and safety profiles. Your doctor will choose based on your condition.

Avoid grapefruit juice, certain heart or liver medicines, and strong CYP3A inhibitors unless prescribed. Always inform your doctor about other medications.

Multaq (dronedarone) typically begins working within a few days, but its full effect in maintaining a normal heart rhythm may take up to 1–2 weeks. Continue taking it as directed, and consult your doctor regarding any specific concerns or side effects.

Multaq has been shown to keep atrial fibrillation at bay for an average of 116 days, compared to 53 days with placebo, based on its efficacy in preventing atrial fibrillation attacks.

Multaq may lead to a modest reduction in blood pressure and a more significant decrease in heart rate during atrial fibrillation, contributing to reducing stroke risk.

Taking Multaq with food helps regulate the level of the medicine in your blood, potentially reducing the risk of side effects.

Multaq (or dronedarone) is derived from amiodarone but does not contain iodine, resulting in fewer side effects such as thyroid and lung toxicity.

Multaq is generally prescribed for adults only. It is not recommended for use in children or adolescents without a doctor's approval.


Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.

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