Rhythm Control for Atrial Fibrillation

What is Rhythm Control?

Rhythm control uses certain drugs to return the heart to a normal sinus rhythm.  Because atrial fibrillation causes irregular heart rhythms, achieving a normal heartbeat is a priority. Five categories of pharmaceuticals known as antiarrhythmics exist to stabilize heart rhythm. When effective, antiarrhythmics can relieve symptoms associated with atrial fibrillation such as fluttering, chest distress, exhaustion, weakness, light-headedness, or shortness of breath.

Antiarrhythmics and How They Treat Atrial Fibrillation

The American Heart Association recommends that antiarrhythmics be prescribed based on the classification of atrial fibrillation and the presence of any underlying heart disease.

Antiarrhythmic drugs are divided into five classes.  Patient safety should always be the first priority when any of the following drugs are prescribed:

Class I

Sodium Channel Blockers: Slow electrical conduction in the heart

Class II

Beta Blockers:  reduce heart beats and blood pressure

Class III

Potassium Channel Blockers:  slow electrical impulses

Class IV

Calcium Channel Blockers:  reduce the heart's workload by relaxing blood vessels and increasing its supply of blood and oxygen

Class V

Miscellaneous:  decreases the conduction of electrical impulses

Antiarrhythmic drugs are effective in maintaining a normal sinus rhythm approximately 60% of the time if treatment is sustained for at least one year. Effectiveness decreases over time and the symptoms of atrial fibrillation can return.40 Additionally, there are serious side effects associated with many antiarrhythmics.

Side Effects of Rhythm Control Antiarrhythmics

Drug regimens for the treatment of atrial fibrillation are often complex. It is important to educate yourself on the appropriate usage as well as the potential side effects of the drug you have been prescribed.  Make sure to talk to your pharmacist and read all information regarding any medication prescribed by your doctor.

Rhythm management is only one of many options available to people suffering with atrial fibrillation. Surgical options are also available.

Your doctor can help you decide what your treatment options are based upon the type of atrial fibrillation you have and your overall health and medical history. Take the time to educate yourself about your treatment options, write down questions to ask your doctor at your next follow-up, and speak to your physician about your options and concerns. If you are a patient or physician and are interested in learning additional information about clinical studies currently underway, please visit clinicaltrials.gov.