class I drugs in atrial fibrillation
Last reviewed 05/2021
Class I drugs may be used:
- for the treatment of atrial fibrillation
- to maintain sinus rhythm following electrical cardioversion
There are significant complications to the use of type I drugs in atrial fibrillation:
- prolongation of the QT interval and Torsade des pointes
- acceleration of the ventricular response if the rhythm is atrial flutter rather than fibrillation
- increased mortality e.g. quinidine after electrical cardioversion