Pharmacotherapy of atrial fibrillation: an old option with new possibilities

Abstract

Background: Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained arrhythmia observed worldwide. Despite modern ablative treatment options, pharmacotherapy remains the first-line therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation. Objective: Based on recently published guidelines for the management of atrial fibrillation, the present paper reviews the current and emerging concepts of pharmacotherapy in atrial fibrillation. Methods: A MEDLINE search was conducted using the keyword ‘atrial fibrillation’ and ‘drug therapy’. The reviewed literature included clinical trials and published reviews as well as clinical guidelines. Results: The mainstay of atrial fibrillation therapy is the prevention of thromboembolic events. With growing knowledge of the pathophysiology of atrial fibrillation new drug targets have been identified that promise improved outcomes in atrial fibrillation management and this will allow individual drug treatment in the near future.

Keywords::

• anti-arrhythmic drugs
• anticoagulation
• atrial fibrillation

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