The clinical use of class IC antiarrhythmic drugs

J La State Med Soc. 1989 May;141(5):27-31.

Abstract

Flecainide, encainide, and propafenone belong to class IC antiarrhythmic drugs. They are new and potent drugs which markedly depress Phase 0 of the action potential without affecting repolarization. Class IC drugs are very potent suppressors of premature ventricular complexes but their efficacy in the treatment of ventricular tachycardia is only comparable to that of class IA agents. Although noncardiac side effects are minimal, myocardial depression and serious proarrhythmic effects are not infrequently noted. A thorough understanding of the pharmacodynamics and toxicity potential of these drugs is therefore essential for their safe usage.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anilides / adverse effects
  • Anilides / pharmacology
  • Anilides / therapeutic use*
  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / adverse effects
  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac / drug therapy
  • Encainide
  • Flecainide / adverse effects
  • Flecainide / pharmacology
  • Flecainide / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Propafenone / adverse effects
  • Propafenone / pharmacology
  • Propafenone / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Anilides
  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents
  • Propafenone
  • Flecainide
  • Encainide