Efficacy of low-dose amiodarone in the prevention of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation resistant to type IA antiarrhythmic drugs.
The efficacy and safety of low-dose amiodarone (Cordarone; Wyeth-Ayerst, Philadelphia, PA) was assessed in 62 symptomatic patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation who were resistant to at least two types of IA drugs. The beneficial response to this treatment was defined as a reduction in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation of greater than or equal to 50% within 1 month. Of the 42 patients (67.7%) who were responders, 39 (62.9%) were completely free of episodes. Intolerable side effects were seen in 12 patients (19.3%). Tolerable side effects were encountered by 73% of patients. Most of the adverse effects were transient and responded to a reduction in the dose. In conclusion, (1) low-dose amiodarone produces a beneficial response in the prevention of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, and (2) low-dose amiodarone is well tolerated.
Kerin
N Z
NZ
Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiovascular Diseases, Sinai-Grace Hospital and Wayne State University, School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
Faitel
K
K
Kerin
I A
IA
Quinones
L
L
Stomel
R J
RJ
D000368:Aged; D000638:Amiodarone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004351:Drug Resistance; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged
D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents; D000638:Amiodarone