Summary of Drug Classes Used in the Treatment of Arrhythmias
The following table summarizes which antiarrhythmic drugs may be used to treat different types of arrhythmias. It is important to note that for a given condition a particular drug may not be efficacious, and in fact, it may precipitate other arrhythmias or adverse cardiovascular effects (e.g., cardiac depression, hypotension). Therefore, drug efficacy and safety must be carefully evaluated and individualized to the patient when treating arrhythmias.
| Condition | Drug | Comments |
| Sinus tachycardia | Class II, IV | Other underlying causes may need treatment |
| Atrial fibrillation/flutter | Class IA, IC, II, III, IV digitalis adenosine |
Ventricular rate control is important goal; anticoagulation required |
| Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia | Class IA, IC, II, III, IV adenosine |
|
| AV block | atropine | Acute reversal |
| Ventricular tachycardia | Class I, II, III | |
| Premature ventricular complexes | Class II, IV Mg++ salts |
PVCs are often benign and not treated |
| Digitalis toxicity | Class IB Mg++ salts; KCl |
Revised 08/24/06