Ibutilide fumarate is a Class III antiarrhythmic agent that is indicated for acute cardioconversion of atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter of a recent onset to sinus rhythm.Target: Calcium ChannelIbutilide fumarate is the first 'pure' class III antiarrhythmic drug to become available. Its predominant action is prolongation of the myocardial action potential duration. Intravenous ibutilide 0.01 to 0.025 mg/kg or 1 to 2 mg successfully converted atrial flutter or fibrillation to sinus rhythm in 33 to 49% of patients in 2 placebo-controlled trials involving 439 patients with sustained arrhythmia [1]. Ibutilide fumarate appears to be an effective alternative method for rapid conversion of recent-onset AF or AFl. The drug may be particularly useful in patients who have undergone recent cardiac surgery or those who are not ideal candidates for DCC [2].
References:
[1]. Foster, R.H., M.I. Wilde, and A. Markham, Ibutilide. A review of its pharmacological properties and clinical potential in the acute management of atrial flutter and fibrillation. Drugs, 1997. 54(2): p. 312-30.
[2]. Howard, P.A., Ibutilide: an antiarrhythmic agent for the treatment of atrial fibrillation or flutter. Ann Pharmacother, 1999. 33(1): p. 38-47.