Which adverse effect is associated with amiodarone therapy?

Which adverse effect is associated with amiodarone therapy?

• A. Bradycardia
• B. Optic neuritis
• C. Hypotension
• D. Hyperkalemia

Answer: (B)

Amiodarone can cause ocular toxicity, with optic neuropathy presenting as optic neuritis-like vision changes. This occurs because the drug can affect the optic nerve, leading to progressive, painless decreases in visual acuity or visual field deficits. Because such changes can be irreversible if not caught early, recognizing optic neuritis as a potential adverse effect is clinically important and often highlighted in exams. While other adverse effects like slowed heart rate or low blood pressure can occur with amiodarone, the distinctive and clinically significant ocular toxicity makes optic neuritis the best answer.

Amiodarone can cause ocular toxicity, with optic neuropathy presenting as optic neuritis-like vision changes. This occurs because the drug can affect the optic nerve, leading to progressive, painless decreases in visual acuity or visual field deficits. Because such changes can be irreversible if not caught early, recognizing optic neuritis as a potential adverse effect is clinically important and often highlighted in exams. While other adverse effects like slowed heart rate or low blood pressure can occur with amiodarone, the distinctive and clinically significant ocular toxicity makes optic neuritis the best answer.