Does Calcium Channel Blockers Interact with Dronedarone?
Calcium Channel Blockers and Dronedarone have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. May potentiate dronedarone's effects on conduction. Initiate with low dose and increase after ECG verification of tolerability. The mechanism involves potentiation of depressant effects on sinus and av nodes. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Dronedarone Class
- Antiarrhythmic
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Calcium Channel Blockers and Dronedarone occurs because potentiation of depressant effects on sinus and av nodes. Clinically, this means may potentiate dronedarone's effects on conduction. initiate with low dose and increase after ecg verification of tolerability. This is classified as a moderate interaction. While it may not require stopping either medication, your healthcare provider should be aware you are taking both so they can monitor for potential effects and adjust treatment if necessary.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Calcium Channel Blockers and your doctor is considering prescribing Dronedarone (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider