Bretylium tosylate

Bretylium Tosylate is a medication primarily used in the treatment of ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. It is classified as an antiarrhythmic agent, specifically a class III antiarrhythmic drug.

Mechanism of Action

Bretylium tosylate works by blocking the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in the regulation of heart rate and blood pressure. By inhibiting the release of norepinephrine, bretylium tosylate can help to stabilize the heart's rhythm and prevent the occurrence of life-threatening arrhythmias.

Uses

Bretylium tosylate is primarily used in the treatment of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. It may also be used in the management of hypertension, although this is less common.

Side Effects

Like all medications, bretylium tosylate can cause side effects. These may include nausea, vomiting, hypotension, and dizziness. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as pulmonary edema and cardiac arrest.

Contraindications

Bretylium tosylate is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should also be used with caution in patients with heart failure, renal impairment, and hypotension.

History

Bretylium tosylate was first synthesized in the 1950s and was initially used as an antihypertensive agent. It was later found to be effective in the treatment of ventricular arrhythmias and was approved for this use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the 1970s.

See Also

• Antiarrhythmic agent
• Ventricular fibrillation
• Ventricular tachycardia