Medications for Atrial Fibrillation

What is an antiarrhythmic drug?

Antiarrhythmic drugs are medications that correct an irregular or abnormal heartbeat. In the case of atrial fibrillation, medications may be used to slow the heartbeat or they may be used to convert the atrial fibrillation to a normal, regular heart rhythm. By correcting heartbeat irregularities, antiarrhythmic drugs help the heart work more efficiently.

There are a wide variety of antiarrhythmic drugs available for atrial fibrillation treatment. The choice of medications depends on the type of atrial fibrillation, the length of time a person has had the fibrillation, age, the heart 's condition, and other medical conditions. In many cases, atrial fibrillation cannot be cured with medications, but can be controlled.

Almost everyone with atrial fibrillation is required to take a blood thinning drug to prevent the formation of blood clots within the atrial chambers. The cardiologist and primary care physician play an important role in the regulation of this medication.

In addition to medications mentioned above, there are drugs which can sometimes help with atrial fibrillation treatment such as ibutilide.

Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation using Digoxin from Foxglove

Atrial fibrillation may also be treated with digoxin which is a drug derived from foxglove. Other irregularities can be treated with drugs such as beta blockers.