[Amiodaron: decades of administration].

The review of long-term international clinical experience with amiodaron covers pharmacological properties of the drug, mechanisms of development of its pharmacodynamic effects basing on its action on ionic channels, receptors, impact on thyroid function. Unique pharmacokinetics of amiodaron, high antiarrhythmic efficacy of the drug in supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmia, positive experience in primary and secondary prevention of sudden death are characterized. Amiodaron is effective in patients with atrial fibrillation including those with organic heart disease and chronic cardiac failure. It is safe in relation to different cardiac side effects which are minimal but has some non-cardiac side effects which require control during long-term treatment.