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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Medicine for Irregular Heartbeat (Arrhythmia)
Introduction
Irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia, is a condition where the heart beats too fast, too slow, or with an unstable rhythm. Arrhythmias can be benign or may indicate a serious heart condition requiring medical intervention.
Types of Arrhythmias
- Atrial fibrillation (AFib) – Rapid and irregular beating of the heart's upper chambers.
- Bradycardia – Slow heartbeat (fewer than 60 beats per minute).
- Tachycardia – Fast heartbeat (more than 100 beats per minute).
- Ventricular fibrillation – A life-threatening condition causing chaotic heartbeats.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Heart disease (coronary artery disease, heart failure)
- High blood pressure
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Excessive caffeine, alcohol, or stimulant medications
- Thyroid disorders
- Genetic predisposition
Medications for Arrhythmia
There are different categories of medications depending on the type and severity of arrhythmia:
1. Antiarrhythmic Drugs
These work by stabilizing the heart’s electrical activity. Examples:
- Amiodarone – For serious arrhythmias
- Flecainide – Used in atrial fibrillation
- Sotalol – A beta-blocker with antiarrhythmic properties
2. Beta-Blockers
Reduce heart rate and manage rhythm:
- Metoprolol
- Atenolol
- Propranolol
3. Calcium Channel Blockers
Slow the heart rate, particularly useful for AFib:
- Verapamil
- Diltiazem
4. Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners)
Used in atrial fibrillation to prevent blood clots and stroke:
- Warfarin
- Apixaban
- Rivaroxaban
5. Other medications
- Digoxin – Helps slow the heart rate, often used in AFib.
- Electrolyte supplements – Potassium and magnesium help maintain normal electrical activity.
Conclusion
Treatment choices depend on the type of arrhythmia, underlying heart conditions, and risk of complications. Always consult a cardiologist for proper diagnosis and medication selection.
When to See a Doctor?
- Frequent palpitations or irregular heartbeat
- Dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath
- Chest pain – Seek immediate medical help!
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Arrhythmias
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29084733/
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Arrhythmia Management
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Atrial-Fibrillation
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.escardio.org/static-file/Escardio/Guidelines/Documents/ehaa612.pdf
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32860505/
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
Our advantages:
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.