Verapamil improves exercise capacity in chronic atrial fibrillation: double-blind crossover study

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Oral verapamil is known to reduce heart rate during rest and mild exercise in chronic atrial fibrillation.
• The drug's effects on cardiovascular performance during higher exercise intensities and its safety profile require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of oral verapamil in improving cardiovascular performance during maximal exercise.
• To assess the safety of oral verapamil in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study was conducted.
• The study included 20 digitalized patients with chronic atrial fibrillation, following an open-label titration phase.
• Standardized multistage ergometry was used to test maximal exercise capacity.

Main Results:

• Maximal exercise capacity significantly improved (p < 0.0005).
• Heart rate was reduced at rest, during submaximal exercise, and at maximal exercise.
• Blood pressure and double product were also reduced, indicating improved cardiovascular efficiency and safety.

Conclusions:

• Oral verapamil effectively enhances cardiovascular performance during maximal exercise in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation.
• Verapamil demonstrates a favorable safety profile, suggesting it may be a preferred treatment for this condition.