Antiarrhythmic Drugs

Question 1

What is the primary mechanism of action for Class 1 antiarrhythmics?

Answer 1

Sodium blockade

Class 1 antiarrhythmics are divided into three subclasses based on their effects on sodium channels.

Question 2

How many subclasses are there in Class 1 antiarrhythmics?

Answer 2

Three: 1a, 1b, 1c

Each subclass has distinct characteristics regarding sodium blockade.

Question 3

What is the characteristic of Class 1a antiarrhythmics?

Answer 3

Moderate sodium and potassium blockade

Class 1a drugs have a balanced effect on both sodium and potassium channels.

Question 4

Which drugs are included in Class 1a antiarrhythmics?

Answer 4

• Quinidine
• Procainamide

These are commonly used Class 1a agents.

Question 5

What is the characteristic of Class 1b antiarrhythmics?

Answer 5

Weak sodium blockade

Class 1b drugs are less potent in blocking sodium channels compared to Class 1a.

Question 6

Which drug is a representative of Class 1b antiarrhythmics?

Answer 6

Lidocaine

Lidocaine is often used in acute settings for ventricular arrhythmias.

Question 7

What is the characteristic of Class 1c antiarrhythmics?

Answer 7

Strong sodium blockade

Class 1c drugs have a significant effect on sodium channels.

Question 8

Which drugs are included in Class 1c antiarrhythmics?

Answer 8

• Flecainide
• Propafenone

These agents are known for their strong sodium channel blocking effects.

Question 9

What is the primary mechanism of action for Class 2 antiarrhythmics?

Answer 9

Beta blockade

Class 2 drugs primarily affect beta-adrenergic receptors.

Question 10

Which drugs are included in Class 2 antiarrhythmics?

Answer 10

• Metoprolol
• Atenolol
• Propranolol

These are common beta-blockers used for arrhythmias.

Question 11

What is the primary mechanism of action for Class 3 antiarrhythmics?

Answer 11

Potassium blockade

Class 3 antiarrhythmics primarily inhibit potassium channels.

Question 12

Which drugs are included in Class 3 antiarrhythmics?

Answer 12

• Amiodarone
• Sotalol

These drugs are known for their potassium channel blocking properties.

Question 13

What is the primary mechanism of action for Class 4 antiarrhythmics?

Answer 13

Calcium channel blockade

Class 4 drugs primarily affect calcium channels.

Question 14

Which drugs are included in Class 4 antiarrhythmics?

Answer 14

• Verapamil
• Diltiazem

These are commonly used calcium channel blockers for arrhythmias.

Question 15

Name two other antiarrhythmic agents not classified in the first four classes.

Answer 15

• Adenosine
• Digoxin

These agents have unique mechanisms and applications in treating arrhythmias.