Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is amiodarone, and it helps control your heart rhythm. 

It's important to take amiodarone exactly as directed. You should take each dose the same way, either always with food or always without food. 

Common side effects can happen. About 1 in 4 patients have nausea, constipation or loss of appetite. About 1 in 3 patients feel tired or have mild tremors, nerve pain, or problems with coordination. You should tell your doctor if you think you are having these or other side effects. 

Amiodarone can cause your skin to be sensitive to sunlight. You should wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Also, avoid sunlight and sun lamps. 

As with any medicine, rare but serious side effects can happen. It's important to read the medication guide for full information, and to talk to your doctor about what you can expect. In general, you should call your doctor right away if you have any unusual changes to your body or your nerves. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow you closely. 

Amiodarone has serious interactions. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking herbal remedies and other medicines, even if they don't require a prescription. Also, do not drink any grapefruit juice. 

Women should not breastfeed or become pregnant because this medicine is not safe for babies. 

If your doctor tells you to stop taking this medicine, it can take a few months for it to leave your body. You must still follow all safety precautions during that time. 

For best results with amiodarone, call your doctor right away if you feel badly or if your heart rhythm does not feel normal.