Abstract

Normal cardiac function requires an appropriate and regular beating rate (cardiac rhythm). When the heart rhythm is too fast or too slow, cardiac function can be impaired, with derangements that vary from mild symptoms to life-threatening complications. Irregularities, particularly those involving excessively fast or slow rates, constitute cardiac 'arrhythmias'. In the past, drug treatment of cardiac arrhythmias has proven difficult, both because of inadequate effectiveness and a risk of serious complications. However, a variety of recent advances have opened up exciting possibilities for the development of novel and superior approaches to arrhythmia therapy. This article will review recent progress and future prospects for treating two particularly important cardiac arrhythmias: atrial fibrillation and ventricular fibrillation.

Author affiliations

1. Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal, 5000 Belanger Street, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H1T 1C8.
2. AstraZeneca Research & Development, Integrative Pharmacology, Pepparedsleden 1, S-431 83 Mölndal, Sweden.

Correspondence to: Stanley Nattel¹ Email: stanley.nattel@icm-mhi.org

MORE ARTICLES LIKE THIS

These links to content published by NPG are automatically generated.