Single High Oral Dose Amiodarone for Cardioversion of Recent Onset Atrial Fibrillation

Background Selection of a pharmacological agent and mode of administration for cardioversion is a challenging task in recent onset atrial fibrillation. Aim To report our experience using single high dose oral amiodarone for the cardioversion of recent onset atrial fibrillation to sinus rhythm in patient presenting with symptoms within 48h. Methods We retrospectively studied 48 patients with recent onset symptomatic atrial fibrillation presenting to the emergency department. These patients were admitted to the cardiology ward and treated with single high oral dose (30mg/kg) amiodarone. Results The mean±SD age of patients was 60.1±4.4years and 54% were male. Forty-two (90%) of them had symptoms Conclusion Single high dose oral amiodarone is safe and highly effective for patients with recent onset atrial fibrillation eligible for acute chemical cardioversion.