Study designs of evaluations included in the review
Case reports, retrospective studies with at least 50 patients and a follow-up of at least 6 months, and controlled studies with an English summary documenting the use of amiodarone. Studies without complete data on the type of arrhythmias or the amiodarone-associated proarrhythmic effects, and those without clear descriptions of the methods used or of the efficacy and side-effects of amiodarone, were excluded.
Specific interventions included in the review
The antiarrhythmic agent amiodarone.
Participants included in the review
Patients treated with amiodarone (for cardiac rhythm disorders).
Outcomes assessed in the review
Amiodarone-associated proarrhythmic events, especially Toisade de Pointes Tachycardia.
How were decisions on the relevance of primary studies made?
Two independent investigators read the reports.