Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of intravenous agents for ventricular arrhythmias

Although no antiarrhythmic agent has ideal pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics, it is useful to evaluate antiarrhythmic agents in terms this ideal profile. The most desirable characteristics of an intravenous antiarrhythmic agent for treating ventricular arrhythmias are outlined. The basic pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of the most commonly used agents for this indication-including amiodarone, bretylium, lidocaine, procainamide, and quinidine-are also reviewed, in light of this profile.