June 23, 2012
View Full PaperDrug-induced atrial fibrillation
Key Result
Drug-induced atrial fibrillation is an increasingly recognized adverse effect that is usually paroxysmal but can require cardioversion, though its true incidence remains unknown.
Structured PICO
What are the clinical characteristics and consequences of drug-induced atrial fibrillation?
P
Population
Patients experiencing drug-induced atrial fibrillation (based on published reports from 1974 to 2011)
E
Exposure
Various drugs capable of inducing atrial fibrillation
O
Outcome
Incidence and clinical consequences of drug-induced atrial fibrillationsafety
Drug-induced atrial fibrillation is an underrecognized adverse effect that requires increased awareness among both cardiac and non-cardiac professionals.
Limitations
- The real incidence and clinical consequences of DIAF are presently unknown due to its short duration and lack of knowledge among physicians and patients.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia and an important cause of hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality. A myriad of drugs can induce AF. However, drug-induced AF (DIAF) receives little attention. Thus, this review is an attempt to attract the attention on this adverse effect. AREAS COVERED: Published reports of drug-induced AF (DIAF) are reviewed in this paper, from January 1974 to December 2011, using the PubMed/Medline database and lateral references. EXPERT OPINION: In most cases, DIAF is paroxysmal and terminates spontaneously, but sometimes AF persists and it is necessary to perform a cardioversion to restore sinus rhythm and avoid progression to persistent AF. Because of the short duration of DIAF, in addition to physicians/patients not being knowledgeable about this side effect, the real incidence and clinical consequences of DIAF are presently unknown. DIAF is an increasing problem, as some widely prescribed drugs can present this adverse effect. The risk is expected to increase in the elderly and in patients with comorbidities. It is important that physicians understand the significance of DIAF, to increase the collaboration between cardiac and non-cardiac professionals, and to educate patients to make them aware of this adverse side effect.