From the FDA Drug Label
Because of presystemic first pass metabolism the absolute bioavailability of dronedarone without food is low, about 4%. It increases to approximately 15% when dronedarone is administered with a high fat meal The recommended dosage of MULTAQ is 400 mg twice daily in adults MULTAQ should be taken as one tablet with the morning meal and one tablet with the evening meal.
Administration with Food: The bioavailability of dronedarone is increased by meals.
- Without food: The absolute bioavailability of dronedarone is low, about 4%.
- With food: The bioavailability increases to approximately 15% when dronedarone is administered with a high fat meal. Recommended Dosage: The recommended dosage of MULTAQ is 400 mg twice daily in adults, taken as one tablet with the morning meal and one tablet with the evening meal 1.
From the Research
Multaq (dronedarone) should always be taken with food, specifically with morning and evening meals, to ensure optimal absorption and effectiveness in treating atrial fibrillation. Taking Multaq without food significantly reduces its absorption into your bloodstream, which can decrease its effectiveness in treating your heart rhythm disorder. When taken with food, especially a meal containing fat, the drug's bioavailability increases, allowing for better control of arrhythmia. The standard dosing for Multaq is 400 mg twice daily with meals, as supported by studies such as 2, which highlights the importance of consistent dosing for maintaining therapeutic benefits.
Key Considerations
- The most recent and highest quality study, 2, emphasizes the safety and efficacy of dronedarone when used appropriately, underscoring the importance of taking it with food for optimal absorption.
- Studies have shown that dronedarone can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular hospitalizations and death in patients with atrial fibrillation, as seen in the ATHENA trial mentioned in 3 and further supported by real-world evidence in 2.
- It is crucial to maintain consistent blood levels of the medication to prevent serious cardiac events, making it essential to take Multaq with meals and not adjust the schedule without consulting a healthcare provider.
- Real-world data and meta-analyses, such as those discussed in 2, provide valuable insights into the safety profile of dronedarone, including its liver safety and interactions with other medications, reinforcing the need for careful consideration and monitoring in clinical practice.
Clinical Implications
- Taking Multaq with food is essential for maximizing its therapeutic benefits and minimizing potential side effects, as indicated by the improved bioavailability with food intake.
- Healthcare providers should emphasize the importance of adherence to the prescribed dosing schedule, including taking the medication with meals, to patients initiating Multaq therapy.
- The selection of patients appropriate for dronedarone treatment, as guided by studies like 4 and 2, is critical for optimizing outcomes and minimizing risks, particularly in patients with heart failure or other comorbid conditions.