Antiarrhythmics Flashcards
How is WPW treated?
acutely with a 1B antiarrhythmic agent (particularly, lidocaine); can also treat long-term with a 1A or 1C agent (es
What are the 4 Vaughan-Williams Classes of antiarrhythmics?
- Na+ channel blockers (1A, 1B, 1C)
- Beta-blockers
- K+ channel blockers
- Ca2+ channel blockers
Why is prolonged QT so dangerous?
It may lead to Torsades de pointe or VF.
Na+ channel blockers affect which type of Na+ channels?
open or inactivated Na+ channels (NOT resting state ones)
Which class of Na+ channel blockers causes a shorter QT?
1B
Which of the Na+ channel blockers causes a prolonged QT?
1A
What are the main class 1A Na+ channel blockers?
procainamide, quinidine
What are the main class 1B Na+ channel blockers?
lidocaine
What are the main class 1C Na+ channel blockers?
flecainide, propafenone
Which of the Na+ channel blockers also has a class III (K+ blocking) effect?
1A (thus, prolonged APD and ERP)
Unique adverse effect associated with procainamide?
lupus-like syndrome (not permanent)
Unique adverse effect associated with quinidine?
tinnitus, seizure, thrombocytopenia
What is the exclusive clinical indication for class 1B Na+ channel blockers?
VT during ischemia
Which Na+ channel blocker has the weakest vs. strongest blockade effect?
1B < 1A < 1C
What is the clinical indication for class 1A antiarrhythmics?
AFib/flutter, VT (everything…SVT and VT)
What are the overall adverse effects of 1A antiarrhythmics?
prolonged QT leading to Torsades; anticholinergic effect
How do class 1B antiarrhythmics act as local anesthetics?
They block Na+ channel propagation by binding depolarized Na+, thereby inhibiting the pain signal to the brain.