Clinical research on ibutilide for immediate cardioversion of recent-onset cerebral embolism and atrial fibrillation

Abstract

Objective To judge the efficiency and safety of intravenous ibutilide for immediate cardioversion of recent-onset cerebral embolism and atrial fibrillation. Methods Fourty consecutive patients with atrial fibrillation(onset with in 1 h-90 d) and cerebral embolism were selected to the group. Patients received ibutilide 1 mg Ⅳ over 10 min. If atrial fibrillation persisted ten minutes later, repeat the first loading. Results The rate of cardioversion of the ibutilide group was high for up to 77.5%. The conversion rate was higher in patients whose atrial fibrillation had persisted within 24 h than over 24 h (89.29% vs 50%,P<0.05). The efficiency was higher in patients whose left atrial diameter was below 4.0 cm than that over 4.0 cm(92% vs 53.33%,P<0.05). The rate of conversion was related to degree and area of cerebral embolism. Diaorder of digestion is adverse drug reaction of ibutilide. The most serious adverse effect of ibutilide was nonsustained monomiphic yentricular tachycardia. Conclusion Ibutilide is a safe and effective agent cardioversion of recent-onset cerebral embolism and atrial fibrillation. Key words: Ibutilide; Cerebral embolism; Atrial fibrillation; Cardioversion