Klin Farmakol Farm. 2005;19(3):175-181

Atrial fibrillation - aims of therapy

prof. MUDr. Jan Lukl CSc

I. interní klinika FN a LF UP Olomouc

Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained tachyarrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation increases both morbidity and mortality of patients. The incidence rises not only with advancing age, but also absolutely, thus increasing the demands on both out- and in-patient care. Its complex etiology has until now rendered it impossible to respond to causative therapy. The therapeutic strategy of atrial fibrillation consists in prevention of thromboembolism, heart rate control, and rhythm control. Anticoagulation remains the most efficient prevention method of thromboembolic events. Heart rate control is usually performed by the so called AV nodal blockers or by ablative methods. To control rhythm antiarrhythmic drugs propafenone and amiodarone are most often administered. Stabilization of sinus rhythm is newly achieved by angiotensin-converting enzymes, electrical cardioversion and selective catheter ablation.

Keywords: Key words: atrial fibrillation, antiarrhythmic drugs, anticoagulation, catheter ablation, DC-cardioversion, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors.

Published: January 1, 2006  Show citation