Зображення 01071. Rate control in permanent atrial fibrillation

Medication used for slowing down the ventricular response rate is chosen individually, and the dose is adjusted so that the ventricular rate at rest is below 110/min and the patient is symptomless. Stricter rate limits are applied in symptomatic patients. In these patients, the target rate is 60–80/min at rest and 90–115/min on light exertion like walking. If one drug is not sufficient, a combination may be used. If that isn't effective either, the patient is referred for consultation to a cardiologist specialized in rhythmology in order to assess the feasibility of invasive treatment (pacemaker and atrioventricular node catheter ablation).

Source: Finnish Current Care Guideline 2012