ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the electrophysiology, pharmacokinetics, indications for use, and toxicity of the older and newer drugs as applied to the pediatric population. It describes the toxicity of antidysrhythmics, both when used therapeutically and in the event of an overdose. The general management principles of antidysrhythmic intoxications involve establishing vital functions and administering supportive care as needed and gastrointestinal decontamination generally consisting of activated charcoal and cathartics within 4 h postingestion. Quinidine, a dextrorotatory isomer of quinine, is a Class la antidysrhythmic agent which is used in children for the treatment of both supraventricular and ventricular tachycardias. Phenytoin has been most useful in the pediatric population for the treatment of ventricular dysrhythmias, especially those which occur postoperatively or as a result of digitalis toxicity. Amiodarone was approved in December 1985 by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of life-threatening ventricular tachydysrhythmias.
