Vernakalant Versus Flecainide: Atrial Contractility
Status:
Unknown status
Trial end date:
2013-08-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with decreased atrial contractility which is
associated with stroke. Decreased contractility becomes apparent after cardioversion of
atrial fibrillation, a short period (weeks) during which stroke risk is increased. Improved
contractility immediately after cardioversion may prevent arrhythmia progression. In
addition, it may reduce the stroke risk. Vernakalant is a new antiarrhythmic drug able to
convert atrial fibrillation to sinus rhythm and at the same time increase atrial
contractility. The latter has not yet been shown in humans and is subject of the present
investigation. Our hypothesis is that in humans the contractility of the atria is higher
after administration of vernakalant compared to flecainide. If indeed vernakalant improves
atrial contractility after cardioversion further studies into the effect on long-term
arrhythmia progression and stroke prevention may follow.