[The Chinese expert recommendations on the clinical use of dronedarone]

Dronedarone, a class Ⅲ antiarrhythmic drug, is a deiodinated benzofuran derivative of amiodarone. It has similar antiarrhythmic effects with amiodarone, but much lesser adverse effects than amiodarone, particularly in those outside the heart. It is suggested to use dronedarone for the rhythm control of atrial fibrillation/flutter, for it has been shown to prevent the recurrence of atrial fibrillation/flutter and reduce rehospitalization in patients with paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation/flutter. Dronedarone is not recommended for the rhythm control in patients with long-term persistent atrial fibrillation or permanent atrial fibrillation, and atrial flutter or atrial fibrillation patients with reduced ejection fraction. Liver function, electrolyte tests and an electrocardiogram should be performed before and after the drug initiation. Potential interactions with other kinds of drugs have to be taken into consideration as well.