Amiodarone-Induced Anaphylaxis

Abstract

Background: Amiodarone-induced anaphylaxis is seldom reported. The mechanism of this anaphylaxis is unknown. Methods: A literature search was carried out with keywords “Amiodarone” and “Anaphylaxis” and “polysorbate 80” or “hypotension.” A search using “amiodarone” in the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) from 1969 to 2024 was also conducted. Results: There are a total of 10 cases of amiodarone-induced anaphylaxis in the literature. Six patients were male. Ages ranged from 15 to 86 years old. Nine cases were triggered by intravenous injection (IV) and one by oral administration. Eight patients did not have previous exposure to amiodarone. The trigger times for IV amiodarone were immediate to 90 minutes. All nine cases of IV amiodarone resulted in hypotension (90%), with an immeasurable blood pressure (70%). Presentations included bronchospasm or a skin rash (60%), angioedema (40%), and unconsciousness (20%). Only one patient had a history of allergy to penicillin and sulfonamide. An amiodarone skin test was positive on one patient. Increased blood tryptase (4 cases), positive basophil activation test to amiodarone (2 cases), increased eosinophil count (1 case), and increased serum IgE (1 case) were reported. Amiodarone was terminated in 80% of the patients. Epinephrine, norepinephrine, antihistamine-1, or steroids were used to rescue patients. Four patients were intubated. All patients fully recovered. In the FAERS database, 89 cases of amiodarone-associated anaphylaxis were reported, resulting in 14 deaths. Conclusions: Solvent polysorbate 80, amiodarone, and iodide may contribute to amiodarone-induced anaphylaxis. Prompt treatment is the key to saving patients.