Rytmihäiriölääkkeet

Rytmihäiriölääkkeet, also known as antiarrhythmic drugs, are a class of medications used to treat abnormal heart rhythms, or arrhythmias. These drugs work by affecting the electrical activity of the heart, helping to restore a regular heartbeat. Arrhythmias can manifest as a heart beating too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or irregularly.

The classification of antiarrhythmic drugs is complex, with the most widely used system dividing them into four main classes based on their mechanism of action on the cardiac action potential. Class I drugs, sodium channel blockers, primarily affect the rapid influx of sodium ions into heart cells. Class II drugs, beta-blockers, inhibit the effects of adrenaline on the heart, slowing the heart rate and reducing its force of contraction. Class III drugs, potassium channel blockers, prolong the repolarization phase of the action potential by affecting potassium ion channels. Class IV drugs, calcium channel blockers, reduce the influx of calcium ions into heart cells, slowing conduction through the atrioventricular node and decreasing heart rate.

The choice of antiarrhythmic drug depends on the specific type of arrhythmia, the patient's overall health, and potential side effects. These medications can have significant side effects, including dizziness, fatigue, and in some cases, more serious cardiac complications. Therefore, they are prescribed and monitored by healthcare professionals. Regular follow-up is crucial to assess efficacy and manage any adverse reactions. Their use aims to prevent symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of serious complications such as stroke or sudden cardiac death associated with certain arrhythmias.