| Abstract | Dofetilide is one of the several novel methanesulfonamide compounds that selectively inhibits the rapid component of the delayed rectifier potassium current, IKr, thus prolonging the effective refractory period (ERP) and the action potential duration (APD) in both the atria and the ventricles. It has no effects on sodium and calcium channels, and therefore, has minimal effects on myocardial conduction velocity. Dofetilide can be administered either orally or intravenously, and has a rapid onset of action. It was recently approved in the United States for the maintenance and conversion of normal sinus rhythm in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). |
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