[Current antiarrhythmic drug therapy in atrial fibrillation].

Treatment strategies for atrial fibrillation (AF) encompass restoration and maintenance of sinus rhythm (rhythm control) or rate control. Antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) currently recognized for this purpose are partially efficacious in maintaining sinus rhythm but are considered to have substantial cardiac or extra-cardiac toxicity. Yet so far, no endpoint trial has shown reduced morbidity or mortality using these agents. However, the ATHENA study was the first AF study conducted where morbidity and mortality were addressed investigating dronedarone as a new ADD therapy. This review summarizes the current pharmacological approaches to AF and briefly reviews the effects of new antiarrhythmic drugs for AF. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart New York.