Antiarrhythmic Medications
Atrial arrhythmias are commonly treated with antiarrhythmic medications, which are drugs that can help control the heart rate and rhythm. Commonly prescribed medications include beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and potassium channel blockers. Beta blockers, such as metoprolol, are used to slow the heart rate and reduce the risk of arrhythmia. Calcium channel blockers, such as amlodipine, work by blocking calcium from entering the heart cells, which helps the heart to beat slower and more regularly. Potassium channel blockers, such as sotalol, slow the electrical signals that cause arrhythmias.
Other Treatments
In addition to medication, other treatments for atrial arrhythmias may include catheter ablation, pacemakers, and implantable defibrillators. Catheter ablation involves using energy to create tiny scars in the heart tissue, which can help stop abnormal electrical signals and restore normal rhythm. Pacemakers are small devices that are implanted in the chest and send electrical signals to the heart to help maintain a normal rhythm. Implantable defibrillators are devices that detect abnormal heart rhythms and send an electrical shock to the heart to restore normal rhythm.