Efficacy of amiodarone for the termination of chronic atrial fibrillation and maintenance of normal sinus rhythm: a prospective, multicenter, randomized, controlled, double blind trial
Abstract
We sought to assess the efficacy and safety of amiodarone for restoration and maintenance of sinus rhythm in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation in a prospective, randomized, double blind trial. Restoration and preservation of sinus rhythm is difficult in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation. The efficacy of oral amiodarone has not been conclusively established. Ninety-five patients with chronic atrial fibrillation, lasting an average of 35.6 months, were randomized to either amiodarone (600 mg/d) (47 patients) or placebo (48 patients) during four weeks. Nonresponders underwent electric cardioversion, and those who reverted continued with amiodarone (200 mg/d) or placebo. End-points were successful cardioversion and sinus rhythm maintenance. Sixteen patients (34.04%) in the amiodarone group reverted within 27.28 +/- 8.85 days in comparison with 0% in the placebo group (P < 0.000009). The conversion rate rose to 51.72% in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation lasting less than 12 months. Twenty-eight patients in the amiodarone group and 39 in the placebo group underwent electric cardioversion, which was successful in 19 patients (67.8%) of the amiodarone group and in 15 (38.46%) of the placebo group (P = 0.017). A...Continue Reading
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