Pharmacology and therapeutic use of antiarythmic drugs

ABSTRACT

In the last few years several new antiarrhythmics have been marketted joining the old cardiac rhythm trouble correctors already in existence for a several decades, such as quinidine and procainamide. Indisputable progress in two ways, effeictiveness and safety have been achieved. However there is still no ideal antiarrhythmic effective in all arrhythmia, which can be taken daily and with no serious side effects. But may be this is simply a utopian idea therapeutic class naturally underlines the need for classification. It is strange to think that the most widely used is that of Vaughan Williams based uniquely on the electrophysiological modification of isolated cells brought about by these products. The application of such treatment for rhythm must be based on identification of the origin and nature of the arrhythmia as well as sound knowledge of the myocardium state. It is of course essential to bear in mind the pharmacodynamic properties, possible medicinal interactions and side effets which are to be feared by application of these products