Role of antiarrhythmic drugs in patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators

Abstract

The transvenous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) has emerged as the primary therapy for patients at high risk of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. A high number of ICD recipients will require subsequent adjunctive treatment with antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs). This review provides an overview of potential reasons for AAD initiation, candidates for treatment, current medical options, and possible drug-device interactions. © The Author 2010.