Which adverse effect is associated with amiodarone therapy?

• A. Pulmonary fibrosis
• B. Hypertension
• C. Hyperglycemia
• D. Hypokalemia

Answer: (A)

Pulmonary toxicity, including pulmonary fibrosis, is a well-known adverse effect of amiodarone. This drug is highly lipophilic and accumulates in lung tissue, and its iodine content can contribute to inflammatory and fibrotic changes over time, especially with long-term or high-dose use, older age, preexisting lung disease, or concurrent oxygen therapy. Patients may present with progressive shortness of breath, dry cough, and fatigue, and exam can show basilar crackles. Imaging often reveals diffuse interstitial markings, and pulmonary function tests may show a restrictive pattern. If suspected, stopping amiodarone is essential, and corticosteroids are sometimes used in more significant cases. In contrast, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hypokalemia are not characteristic adverse effects of amiodarone.