Antiarrhythmic agent
Antiarrhythmic agent
Antiarrhythmic agents (pronounced: an-tee-ar-rith-mic agents) are a group of pharmaceuticals that are used to suppress abnormal rhythms of the heart (cardiac arrhythmias), such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation.
Etymology
The term "antiarrhythmic agent" is derived from the Greek words "anti" meaning against, "arrhythmia" meaning without rhythm, and "agent" meaning something that produces an effect.
Classification
Antiarrhythmic agents are classified into four main classes (I, II, III, IV) according to the Vaughan Williams classification, which is based on the primary mechanism of action.
- Class I antiarrhythmic agents: These agents interfere with the sodium (Na+) channel.
- Class II antiarrhythmic agents: These agents are anti-sympathetic nervous system agents. Most agents in this class are beta blockers.
- Class III antiarrhythmic agents: These agents affect potassium (K+) efflux.
- Class IV antiarrhythmic agents: These agents affect calcium channels and the AV node.
Related Terms
- Arrhythmia: A condition in which the heart beats with an irregular or abnormal rhythm.
- Atrial fibrillation: A quivering or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications.
- Ventricular tachycardia: A fast, abnormal heart rate that begins in the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles).
- Ventricular fibrillation: A life-threatening cardiac condition characterized by rapid, irregular heartbeats.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Antiarrhythmic agent
- Wikipedia's article - Antiarrhythmic agent
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