What is the pediatric dose for amiodarone in cardiac arrest?

• A. AMIODARONE 5 mg/kg IV/IO; may repeat to total of 3 doses
• B. AMIODARONE 2 mg/kg IV/IO; may repeat to total of 3 doses
• C. AMIODARONE 10 mg/kg IV/IO; single dose
• D. AMIODARONE 0.5 mg/kg IV/IO; may repeat

Answer: (A)

In pediatric cardiac arrest, amiodarone is used for persistent shockable rhythms after initial defibrillation and CPR. The correct dosing is 5 mg/kg given IV or IO, and it can be repeated, up to a total of three doses if the rhythm remains unstable. This weight-based approach provides effective antiarrhythmic action while limiting the risk of toxicity in children. A single dose of 5 mg/kg is the starting point, with subsequent doses given at intervals as needed up to three doses overall. The other suggested amounts are not aligned with standard pediatric resuscitation guidelines, as they are either too small to be effective or exceed the recommended dosing pattern for this scenario.