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Trohman RG, Huang HD, Sharma PS. Atrial fibrillation: primary prevention, secondary prevention, and prevention of thromboembolic complications: part 1. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1060030. [PMID: 37396596 PMCID: PMC10311453 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1060030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF), is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia. It was once thought to be benign as long as the ventricular rate was controlled, however, AF is associated with significant cardiac morbidity and mortality. Increasing life expectancy driven by improved health care and decreased fertility rates has, in most of the world, resulted in the population aged ≥65 years growing more rapidly than the overall population. As the population ages, projections suggest that the burden of AF may increase more than 60% by 2050. Although considerable progress has been made in the treatment and management of AF, primary prevention, secondary prevention, and prevention of thromboembolic complications remain a work in progress. This narrative review was facilitated by a MEDLINE search to identify peer-reviewed clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and other clinically relevant studies. The search was limited to English-language reports published between 1950 and 2021. Atrial fibrillation was searched via the terms primary prevention, hyperthyroidism, Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, catheter ablation, surgical ablation, hybrid ablation, stroke prevention, anticoagulation, left atrial occlusion and atrial excision. Google and Google scholar as well as bibliographies of identified articles were reviewed for additional references. In these two manuscripts, we discuss the current strategies available to prevent AF, then compare noninvasive and invasive treatment strategies to diminish AF recurrence. In addition, we examine the pharmacological, percutaneous device and surgical approaches to prevent stroke as well as other types of thromboembolic events.
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Walker M, Patel P, Kwon O, Koene RJ, Duprez DA, Kwon Y. Atrial Fibrillation and Hypertension: "Quo Vadis". Curr Hypertens Rev 2022; 18:39-53. [PMID: 35023459 DOI: 10.2174/1573402118666220112122403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Hypertension is one of the most well-established risk factors for atrial fibrillation. Long-standing untreated hypertension leads to structural remodeling and electrophysiologic alterations causing an atrial myopathy that forms a vulnerable substrate for the development and maintenance of atrial fibrillation. Hypertension-induced hemodynamic, inflammatory, hormonal, and autonomic changes all appear to be important contributing factors. Furthermore, hypertension is also associated with several atrial fibrillation-related comorbidities. As such, hypertension may represent an important target for therapy in atrial fibrillation. Clinicians should be aware of pitfalls of the blood pressure measurement in atrial fibrillation. While the auscultatory method is preferred, the use of automated devices appears to be an acceptable method in the ambulatory setting. There are pathophysiologic bases and emerging clinical evidence suggesting the benefit of renin-angiotensin system inhibition in risk reduction of atrial fibrillation development particularly in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy or left ventricular dysfunction. A better understanding of hypertension's pathophysiologic link to atrial fibrillation may lead to the development of novel therapies for the primary prevention of atrial fibrillation. Finally, future studies are needed to address optimal blood pressure goal to minimize the risk of atrial fibrillation-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- McCall Walker
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, USA
| | - Paras Patel
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA
| | - Osung Kwon
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Uslan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ryan J Koene
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, USA
| | - Daniel A Duprez
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Younghoon Kwon
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
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3
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Bhullar S, Shah A, Dhalla N. Mechanisms for the development of heart failure and improvement of cardiac function by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. SCRIPTA MEDICA 2022. [DOI: 10.5937/scriptamed53-36256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, which prevent the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, are well-known for the treatments of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart failure, hypertension and acute coronary syndrome. Several of these inhibitors including captopril, enalapril, ramipril, zofenopril and imidapril attenuate vasoconstriction, cardiac hypertrophy and adverse cardiac remodeling, improve clinical outcomes in patients with cardiac dysfunction and decrease mortality. Extensive experimental and clinical research over the past 35 years has revealed that the beneficial effects of ACE inhibitors in heart failure are associated with full or partial prevention of adverse cardiac remodeling. Since cardiac function is mainly determined by coordinated activities of different subcellular organelles, including sarcolemma, sarcoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria and myofibrils, for regulating the intracellular concentration of Ca2+ and myocardial metabolism, there is ample evidence to suggest that adverse cardiac remodelling and cardiac dysfunction in the failing heart are the consequence of subcellular defects. In fact, the improvement of cardiac function by different ACE inhibitors has been demonstrated to be related to the attenuation of abnormalities in subcellular organelles for Ca2+-handling, metabolic alterations, signal transduction defects and gene expression changes in failing cardiomyocytes. Various ACE inhibitors have also been shown to delay the progression of heart failure by reducing the formation of angiotensin II, the development of oxidative stress, the level of inflammatory cytokines and the occurrence of subcellular defects. These observations support the view that ACE inhibitors improve cardiac function in the failing heart by multiple mechanisms including the reduction of oxidative stress, myocardial inflammation and Ca2+-handling abnormalities in cardiomyocytes.
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Mascolo A, Urbanek K, De Angelis A, Sessa M, Scavone C, Berrino L, Rosano GMC, Capuano A, Rossi F. Angiotensin II and angiotensin 1-7: which is their role in atrial fibrillation? Heart Fail Rev 2021; 25:367-380. [PMID: 31375968 DOI: 10.1007/s10741-019-09837-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality as well as a public health burden considering the high costs of AF-related hospitalizations. Pre-clinical and clinical evidence showed a potential role of the renin angiotensin system (RAS) in the etiopathogenesis of AF. Among RAS mediators, angiotensin II (AII) and angiotensin 1-7 (A1-7) have been mostly investigated in AF. Specifically, the stimulation of the pathway mediated by AII or the inhibition of the pathway mediated by A1-7 may participate in inducing and sustaining AF. In this review, we summarize the evidence showing that both RAS pathways may balance the onset of AF through different biological mechanisms involving inflammation, epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) accumulation, and electrical cardiac remodeling. EAT is a predictor for AF as it may induce its onset through direct (infiltration of epicardial adipocytes into the underlying atrial myocardium) and indirect (release of inflammatory adipokines, the stimulation of oxidative stress, macrophage phenotype switching, and AF triggers) mechanisms. Classic RAS blockers such as angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) may prevent AF by affecting the accumulation of the EAT, representing a useful therapeutic strategy for preventing AF especially in patients with heart failure and known left ventricular dysfunction. Further studies are necessary to prove this benefit in patients with other cardiovascular diseases. Finally, the possibility of using the A1-7 or ACE2 analogues, to enlarge current therapeutic options for AF, may represent an important field of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Mascolo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli 16, 80138, Naples, Italy.
| | - Konrad Urbanek
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli 16, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella De Angelis
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli 16, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Sessa
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli 16, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina Scavone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli 16, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Liberato Berrino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli 16, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Massimo Claudio Rosano
- IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy.,Cardiovascular and Cell Sciences Research Institute, St. George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Annalisa Capuano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli 16, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Rossi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli 16, 80138, Naples, Italy
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Hyman MC, Levin MG, Gill D, Walker VM, Georgakis MK, Davies NM, Marchlinski FE, Damrauer SM. Genetically Predicted Blood Pressure and Risk of Atrial Fibrillation. Hypertension 2021; 77:376-382. [PMID: 33390040 PMCID: PMC7803440 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.120.16191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Observational studies have shown an association between hypertension and atrial fibrillation (AF). Aggressive blood pressure management in patients with known AF reduces overall arrhythmia burden, but it remains unclear whether hypertension is causative for AF. To address this question, this study explored the relationship between genetic predictors of blood pressure and risk of AF. We secondarily explored the relationship between genetically proxied use of antihypertensive drugs and risk of AF. Two-sample Mendelian randomization was performed using an inverse-variance weighted meta-analysis with weighted median Mendelian randomization and Egger intercept tests performed as sensitivity analyses. Summary statistics for systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and pulse pressure were obtained from the International Consortium of Blood Pressure and the UK Biobank discovery analysis and AF from the 2018 Atrial Fibrillation Genetics Consortium multiethnic genome-wide association studies. Increases in genetically proxied systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, or pulse pressure by 10 mm Hg were associated with increased odds of AF (systolic blood pressure: odds ratio [OR], 1.17 [95% CI, 1.11-1.22]; P=1×10-11; diastolic blood pressure: OR, 1.25 [95% CI, 1.16-1.35]; P=3×10-8; pulse pressure: OR, 1.1 [95% CI, 1.0-1.2]; P=0.05). Decreases in systolic blood pressure by 10 mm Hg estimated by genetic proxies of antihypertensive medications showed calcium channel blockers (OR, 0.66 [95% CI, 0.57-0.76]; P=8×10-9) and β-blockers (OR, 0.61 [95% CI, 0.46-0.81]; P=6×10-4) decreased the risk of AF. Blood pressure-increasing genetic variants were associated with increased risk of AF, consistent with a causal relationship between blood pressure and AF. These data support the concept that blood pressure reduction with calcium channel blockade or β-blockade could reduce the risk of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C Hyman
- From the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (M.C.H., M.G.L., F.E.M.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia
| | - Michael G Levin
- From the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (M.C.H., M.G.L., F.E.M.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia.,Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA (M.G.L., S.M.D.)
| | - Dipender Gill
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health (D.G.), Imperial College London, United Kingdom.,Department of Medicine, Centre for Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Hammersmith Campus (D.G.), Imperial College London, United Kingdom.,Department of Genetics, Novo Nordisk Research Centre Oxford, Old Road Campus, United Kingdom (D.G.).,Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics Section, Institute of Medical and Biomedical Education and Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, United Kingdom (D.G.).,Clinical Pharmacology Group, Pharmacy and Medicines Directorate, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom (D.G.)
| | - Venexia M Walker
- Department of Surgery (V.M.W., S.M.D.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia.,Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit (V.M.W., N.D.), University of Bristol, United Kingdom.,Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences (V.M.W.), University of Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Marios K Georgakis
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University LMU, Munich, Germany (M.K.G.)
| | - Neil M Davies
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit (V.M.W., N.D.), University of Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Francis E Marchlinski
- From the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (M.C.H., M.G.L., F.E.M.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia
| | - Scott M Damrauer
- Department of Surgery (V.M.W., S.M.D.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia.,Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA (M.G.L., S.M.D.)
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6
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Zylla MM, Hochadel M, Andresen D, Brachmann J, Eckardt L, Hoffmann E, Kuck KH, Lewalter T, Schumacher B, Spitzer SG, Willems S, Senges J, Katus HA, Thomas D. Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Hypertension-An Analysis from the German Ablation Registry. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9082402. [PMID: 32727136 PMCID: PMC7463680 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9082402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Hypertension (HTN) constitutes a risk factor for the development of atrial fibrillation (AF), as well as for thromboembolic and bleeding events. We analysed the outcome after catheter ablation of AF in HTN in a cohort from the prospective multicenter German Ablation Registry. Methods: Between 03/2008 and 01/2010, 626 patients undergoing AF-ablation were analysed. Patients diagnosed with HTN (n = 386) were compared with patients without HTN (n = 240) with respect to baseline, procedural and long-term outcome parameters. Results: Patients with HTN were older and more often presented with persistent forms of AF and cardiac comorbidities. Major and moderate in-hospital complications were low. At long-term follow-up, major cardiovascular events were rare in both groups. Rates of AF-recurrence, freedom from antiarrhythmic medication and repeat ablation were not statistically different between groups. Most patients reported improvement of symptoms and satisfaction with the treatment. However, patients with HTN more frequently complained of dyspnea of New York Heart Association (NYHA) class ≥ II and angina. They were more often rehospitalized, particularly when persistent AF had been diagnosed. Conclusion: Catheter ablation of AF is associated with low complication rates and favorable arrhythmia-related results in patients with HTN. Residual clinical symptoms may be due to cardiac comorbidities and require additional attention in this important subgroup of AF-patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura M. Zylla
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (M.M.Z.); (H.A.K.)
- HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias Hochadel
- Stiftung Institut für Herzinfarktforschung, IHF, Bremserstraße 79, 67063 Ludwigshafen, Germany; (M.H.); (J.S.)
| | - Dietrich Andresen
- Department of Cardiology, Vivantes Hospital, Klinikum am Urban, Dieffenbachstraße 1, 10967 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Johannes Brachmann
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Coburg, Ketschendorfer Str. 33, 96450 Coburg, Germany;
| | - Lars Eckardt
- Division of Electrophysiology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Germany;
| | - Ellen Hoffmann
- Department of Cardiology/Intensive Care Medicine, Heart Center Munich-Bogenhausen, Englschalkinger Str. 77, 81925 Munich, Germany;
| | - Karl-Heinz Kuck
- Department of Cardiology, Asklepios Hospital St. Georg, Lohmühlenstraße 5, 20099 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Thorsten Lewalter
- Klinik für Kardiologie und Internist, Intensivmedizin, Peter Osypka Herzzentrum, Internistisches Klinikum München Süd, Am Isarkanal 36, 81379 Munich, Germany;
| | - Burghard Schumacher
- Department of Cardiology, Herz- und Gefäßklinik, Salzburger Leite 1, 97616 Bad Neustadt/Saale, Germany;
| | - Stefan G. Spitzer
- Praxisklinik Herz und Gefäße, Forststraße 3, 01099 Dresden, Germany;
- Institute of Medical Technology, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Universitätsplatz 1, 01968 Senftenberg, Germany
| | - Stephan Willems
- Department of Cardiology/Electrophysiology, University Heart Center, Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Jochen Senges
- Stiftung Institut für Herzinfarktforschung, IHF, Bremserstraße 79, 67063 Ludwigshafen, Germany; (M.H.); (J.S.)
| | - Hugo A. Katus
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (M.M.Z.); (H.A.K.)
- HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dierk Thomas
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (M.M.Z.); (H.A.K.)
- HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-6221-568855; Fax: +49-6221-565514
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Williams EA, Russo V, Ceraso S, Gupta D, Barrett-Jolley R. Anti-arrhythmic properties of non-antiarrhythmic medications. Pharmacol Res 2020; 156:104762. [PMID: 32217149 PMCID: PMC7248574 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Traditional anti-arrhythmic drugs are classified by the Vaughan-Williams classification scheme based on their mechanisms of action, which includes effects on receptors and/or ion channels. Some known anti-arrhythmic drugs do not perfectly fit into this classification scheme. Other medications/molecules with established non-anti-arrhythmic indications have shown anti-arrhythmic properties worth exploring. In this narrative review, we discuss the molecular mechanisms and evidence base for the anti-arrhythmic properties of traditional non-antiarrhythmic drugs such as inhibitors of the renin angiotensin system (RAS), statins and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). In summary, RAS antagonists, statins and PUFAs are 'upstream target modulators' that appear to have anti-arrhythmic roles. RAS blockers prevent the downstream arrhythmogenic effects of angiotensin II - the main effector peptide of RAS - and the angiotensin type 1 receptor. Statins have pleiotropic effects including anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, modulation of autonomic nervous system, anti-proliferative and anti-oxidant actions which appear to underlie their anti-arrhythmic properties. PUFAs have the ability to alter ion channel function and prevent excessive accumulation of calcium ions in cardiac myocytes, which might explain their benefits in certain arrhythmic conditions. Clearly, whilst a number of anti-arrhythmic drugs exist, there is still a need for randomised trials to establish whether additional agents, including those already in clinical use, have significant anti-arrhythmic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Ato Williams
- Department of Cardiology, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, Thomas Drive, Liverpool, L14 3PE, United Kingdom; Institute of Aging and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Vincenzo Russo
- Chair of Cardiology, Department of Medical Translational Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Sergio Ceraso
- Specialization Fellow in Cardiology, Department of Medical Translational Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" - Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Dhiraj Gupta
- Department of Cardiology, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, Thomas Drive, Liverpool, L14 3PE, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Barrett-Jolley
- Chair Neuropharmacology, Institute of Aging and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, United Kingdom.
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Soliman EZ, Howard G, Judd S, Bhave PD, Howard VJ, Herrington DM. Factors Modifying the Risk of Atrial Fibrillation Associated With Atrial Premature Complexes in Patients With Hypertension. Am J Cardiol 2020; 125:1324-1331. [PMID: 32139160 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2020.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Patients with hypertension who develop atrial premature complexes (APCs) are at a particularly high risk for atrial fibrillation (AF). We sought to identify medications and modifiable risk factors that could reduce the risk of AF imposed by presence of APCs in such a high risk group. This analysis included 4,331 participants with treated hypertension from the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke study who were free of AF and cardiovascular disease at the time of enrollment (2003-2007). APCs were detected in 8.2% (n = 356) of the participants at baseline. During a median follow-up of 9.4 years, 9.9% (n = 429) of the participants developed AF. Participants with APCs, compared with those without, were more than twice as likely to develop AF (Odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 2.36[1.75, 3.19]). This association was significantly weaker in statin users than nonusers (Odds ratio [95% confidence interval]:1.42[0.81,2.48] vs 3.01[2.11,4.32], respectively; interaction p-value = 0.02), and in angiotensin-II receptor blocker users than nonusers (Odds ratio [95% confidence interval]:1.31[0.66,2.61] vs 2.78[1.99,3.89], respectively; interaction p-value = 0.05). Borderline weaker associations between APCs and AF were also observed in alpha-blocker users than nonusers, nondiabetics than diabetics, and in those with systolic blood pressure level 130 to 139 mm Hg compared with those with other systolic blood pressure levels. No significant effect modifications were observed by use of other medications or by presence of other cardiovascular risk factors. In conclusion, the significant AF risk associated with APCs in patients with hypertension could potentially be reduced by treatment with angiotensin-II receptor blockers and statins along with lowering blood pressure and management of diabetes.
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Chung MK, Refaat M, Shen WK, Kutyifa V, Cha YM, Di Biase L, Baranchuk A, Lampert R, Natale A, Fisher J, Lakkireddy DR. Atrial Fibrillation. J Am Coll Cardiol 2020; 75:1689-1713. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2020.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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10
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Verdecchia P, Angeli F, Reboldi G. Hypertension and Atrial Fibrillation: Doubts and Certainties From Basic and Clinical Studies. Circ Res 2019; 122:352-368. [PMID: 29348255 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.117.311402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Hypertension and atrial fibrillation (AF) are 2 important public health priorities. Their prevalence is increasing worldwide, and the 2 conditions often coexist in the same patient. Hypertension and AF are strikingly related to an excess risk of cardiovascular disease and death. Hypertension ultimately increases the risk of AF, and because of its high prevalence in the population, it accounts for more cases of AF than other risk factors. Among patients with established AF, hypertension is present in about 60% to 80% of individuals. Despite the well-known association between hypertension and AF, several pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the higher risk of AF in hypertensive patients are still incompletely known. From an epidemiological standpoint, it is unclear whether the increasing risk of AF with blood pressure (BP) is linear or threshold. It is uncertain whether an intensive control of BP or the use of specific antihypertensive drugs, such as those inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, reduces the risk of subsequent AF in hypertensive patients in sinus rhythm. Finally, in spite of the observational evidence suggesting a progressive relation between BP levels and the risk of thromboembolism and bleeding in patients with hypertension and AF, the extent to which BP should be lowered in these patients, including those who undergo catheter ablation, remains uncertain. This article summarizes the main basic mechanisms through which hypertension is believed to promote AF. It also explores epidemiological data supporting an evolutionary pathway from hypertension to AF, including the emerging evidence favoring an intensive BP control or the use of drugs, which inhibit the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system to reduce the risk of AF. Finally, it examines the impact of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants compared with warfarin in relation to hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Verdecchia
- From the Struttura Complessa di Medicina, Dipartimento di Medicina, Ospedale di Assisi, Italy (P.V.); and Struttura Complessa di Cardiologia e Fisiopatologia Cardiovascolare, Dipartimento di Cardiologia (F.A.) and Dipartimento di Medicina Interna (G.R.), Università di Perugia, Italy.
| | - Fabio Angeli
- From the Struttura Complessa di Medicina, Dipartimento di Medicina, Ospedale di Assisi, Italy (P.V.); and Struttura Complessa di Cardiologia e Fisiopatologia Cardiovascolare, Dipartimento di Cardiologia (F.A.) and Dipartimento di Medicina Interna (G.R.), Università di Perugia, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Reboldi
- From the Struttura Complessa di Medicina, Dipartimento di Medicina, Ospedale di Assisi, Italy (P.V.); and Struttura Complessa di Cardiologia e Fisiopatologia Cardiovascolare, Dipartimento di Cardiologia (F.A.) and Dipartimento di Medicina Interna (G.R.), Università di Perugia, Italy
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11
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Podzolkov МШ, Tarzimanova AI, Gataulin RG. CARDIOPROTECTIVE PROPERTIES OF LISINOPRIL: NEW POSSIBILITIES. RATIONAL PHARMACOTHERAPY IN CARDIOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.20996/1819-6446-2018-14-3-319-323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim. To study the changes in the stiffness of the arterial wall, vasomotor function of the endothelium, and appearance of new cases of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with arterial hypertension with long-term treatment with lisinopril.Material and method. 66 hypertensive patients with cardiac sinus rhythm at the age of 48-64 years (mean age 58.4±4.2 years) were included into the study. They were randomized into 2 groups: patients of group 1 (n=35) were prescribed lisinopril or a combination of lisinopril with hydrochlorothiazide over the 5-year follow-up; patients of group 2 (control) did not receive angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers. The follow-up duration was from September 2010 until June 2016. It included telephone calls once every 3 months and annual clinical, instrumental and laboratory examination. The new-onset AF was identified by the 24-hour Holter ECG monitoring results and by patient symptom diaries.Results. New-onset AF was registered in 2 patients (6%) in the lisinopril group and in 4 patients (13%) from the control group (p=0.001) over the 5-year follow-up. Lisinopril significantly reduced AF incidence in hypertensive patients. The patients on lisinopril were found to have no significant changes in the left ventricular mass index and left atrial size according to echocardiography done after the 5-year follow-up whereas in the patients of control group both parameters increased significantly. Lisinopril contributed to the maintenance of endothelial vasodilator function and prevented increase in arterial wall stiffness.Conclusion. Long term lisinopril treatment was found to significantly reduce the AF incidence in hypertensive patients over the 5-year follow-up. Lisinopril demonstrated organoprotective properties throughout the cardiovascular disease continuum and can be recommended for primary prevention of arrhythmia in hypertensive patients.
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Atrial Fibrillation. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2017; 10:CIRCEP.117.005956. [DOI: 10.1161/circep.117.005956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Dewland TA, Soliman EZ, Yamal JM, Davis BR, Alonso A, Albert CM, Simpson LM, Haywood LJ, Marcus GM. Pharmacologic Prevention of Incident Atrial Fibrillation: Long-Term Results From the ALLHAT (Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial). Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2017; 10:e005463. [PMID: 29212812 PMCID: PMC5728652 DOI: 10.1161/circep.117.005463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although atrial fibrillation (AF) guidelines indicate that pharmacological blockade of the renin-angiotensin system may be considered for primary AF prevention in hypertensive patients, previous studies have yielded conflicting results. We sought to determine whether randomization to lisinopril reduces incident AF or atrial flutter (AFL) compared with chlorthalidone in a large clinical trial cohort with extended post-trial surveillance. METHODS AND RESULTS We performed a secondary analysis of the ALLHAT (Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial), a randomized, double-blind, active-controlled clinical trial that enrolled hypertensive individuals ≥55 years of age with at least one other cardiovascular risk factor. Participants were randomly assigned to receive amlodipine, lisinopril, or chlorthalidone. Individuals with elevated fasting low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were also randomized to pravastatin versus usual care. The primary outcome was the development of either AF or AFL as diagnosed by serial study ECGs or by Medicare claims data. Among 14 837 participants without prevalent AF or AFL, 2514 developed AF/AFL during a mean 7.5±3.2 years of follow-up. Compared with chlorthalidone, randomization to either lisinopril (hazard ratio, 1.04; 95% confidence interval, 0.94-1.15; P=0.46) or amlodipine (hazard ratio, 0.93; 95% confidence interval, 0.84-1.03; P=0.16) was not associated with a significant reduction in incident AF/AFL. CONCLUSIONS Compared with chlorthalidone, treatment with lisinopril is not associated with a meaningful reduction in incident AF or AFL among older adults with a history of hypertension. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00000542.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Dewland
- From the Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland (T.A.D.); Cardiology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC (E.Z.S.); University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston (J.-M.Y., B.R.D., L.M.S.); Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA (A.A.); Center for Arrhythmia Prevention, Division of Preventive Medicine and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (C.M.A.); Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles (L.J.H.); and Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco (G.M.M.)
| | - Elsayed Z Soliman
- From the Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland (T.A.D.); Cardiology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC (E.Z.S.); University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston (J.-M.Y., B.R.D., L.M.S.); Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA (A.A.); Center for Arrhythmia Prevention, Division of Preventive Medicine and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (C.M.A.); Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles (L.J.H.); and Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco (G.M.M.)
| | - Jose-Miguel Yamal
- From the Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland (T.A.D.); Cardiology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC (E.Z.S.); University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston (J.-M.Y., B.R.D., L.M.S.); Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA (A.A.); Center for Arrhythmia Prevention, Division of Preventive Medicine and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (C.M.A.); Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles (L.J.H.); and Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco (G.M.M.)
| | - Barry R Davis
- From the Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland (T.A.D.); Cardiology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC (E.Z.S.); University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston (J.-M.Y., B.R.D., L.M.S.); Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA (A.A.); Center for Arrhythmia Prevention, Division of Preventive Medicine and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (C.M.A.); Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles (L.J.H.); and Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco (G.M.M.)
| | - Alvaro Alonso
- From the Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland (T.A.D.); Cardiology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC (E.Z.S.); University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston (J.-M.Y., B.R.D., L.M.S.); Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA (A.A.); Center for Arrhythmia Prevention, Division of Preventive Medicine and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (C.M.A.); Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles (L.J.H.); and Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco (G.M.M.)
| | - Christine M Albert
- From the Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland (T.A.D.); Cardiology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC (E.Z.S.); University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston (J.-M.Y., B.R.D., L.M.S.); Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA (A.A.); Center for Arrhythmia Prevention, Division of Preventive Medicine and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (C.M.A.); Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles (L.J.H.); and Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco (G.M.M.)
| | - Lara M Simpson
- From the Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland (T.A.D.); Cardiology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC (E.Z.S.); University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston (J.-M.Y., B.R.D., L.M.S.); Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA (A.A.); Center for Arrhythmia Prevention, Division of Preventive Medicine and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (C.M.A.); Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles (L.J.H.); and Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco (G.M.M.)
| | - L Julian Haywood
- From the Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland (T.A.D.); Cardiology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC (E.Z.S.); University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston (J.-M.Y., B.R.D., L.M.S.); Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA (A.A.); Center for Arrhythmia Prevention, Division of Preventive Medicine and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (C.M.A.); Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles (L.J.H.); and Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco (G.M.M.)
| | - Gregory M Marcus
- From the Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland (T.A.D.); Cardiology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC (E.Z.S.); University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston (J.-M.Y., B.R.D., L.M.S.); Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA (A.A.); Center for Arrhythmia Prevention, Division of Preventive Medicine and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (C.M.A.); Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles (L.J.H.); and Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco (G.M.M.).
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Balla SR, Cyr DD, Lokhnygina Y, Becker RC, Berkowitz SD, Breithardt G, Fox KA, Hacke W, Halperin JL, Hankey GJ, Mahaffey KW, Nessel CC, Piccini JP, Singer DE, Patel MR. Relation of Risk of Stroke in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation to Body Mass Index (from Patients Treated With Rivaroxaban and Warfarin in the Rivaroxaban Once Daily Oral Direct Factor Xa Inhibition Compared with Vitamin K Antagonism for Prevention of Stroke and Embolism Trial in Atrial Fibrillation Trial). Am J Cardiol 2017; 119:1989-1996. [PMID: 28477860 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2017.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
We investigated stroke outcomes in normal weight (body mass index [BMI] 18.50 to 24.99 kg/m2), overweight (BMI 25.00 to 29.99 kg/m2), and obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) patients with atrial fibrillation treated with rivaroxaban and warfarin. We compared the incidence of stroke and systemic embolic events as well as bleeding events in normal weight (n = 3,289), overweight (n = 5,535), and obese (n = 5,206) patients in a post hoc analysis of the Rivaroxaban Once Daily Oral Direct Factor Xa Inhibition Compared with Vitamin K Antagonism for Prevention of Stroke and Embolism Trial in Atrial Fibrillation trial. Stroke and systemic embolic event rates per 100 patient-years were 2.93 in the normal weight group (reference group), 2.28 in the overweight group (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 0.81, 95% CI 0.66 to 0.99, p = 0.04) and 1.88 in the obese group (adjusted HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.86, p <0.001). The risk of stroke was statistically significantly lower for obese patients with BMI ≥35 than that for normal weight patients in both the rivaroxaban and warfarin groups (rivaroxaban: HR 0.62, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.96, p = 0.033; warfarin: HR 0.48, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.74, p <0.001). In conclusion, in patients with atrial fibrillation treated with anticoagulant therapy, increased BMI was associated with decreased stroke risk. Warfarin and the novel anticoagulant rivaroxaban are effective in stroke prevention in all subgroups of obese patients.
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Shahid F, Lip GYH, Shantsila E. Renin–angiotensin blockade in atrial fibrillation: where are we now? J Hum Hypertens 2017; 31:425-426. [DOI: 10.1038/jhh.2017.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Mourtzinis G, Schiöler L, Kahan T, Bengtsson Boström K, Hjerpe P, Hasselström J, Manhem K. Antihypertensive control and new-onset atrial fibrillation: Results from the Swedish Primary Care Cardiovascular Database (SPCCD). Eur J Prev Cardiol 2017; 24:1206-1211. [DOI: 10.1177/2047487317708266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Mourtzinis
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Linus Schiöler
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Thomas Kahan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | | | - Per Hjerpe
- Research and Development Centre, Skaraborg Primary Care, Sweden
| | - Jan Hasselström
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - Karin Manhem
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
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Is Atrial Fibrillation a Preventable Disease? J Am Coll Cardiol 2017; 69:1968-1982. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2017.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Revised: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Batra G, Lindhagen L, Andell P, Erlinge D, James S, Spaak J, Oldgren J. Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers Are Associated With Improved Outcome but Do Not Prevent New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation After Acute Myocardial Infarction. J Am Heart Assoc 2017; 6:e005165. [PMID: 28320744 PMCID: PMC5524029 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.116.005165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment with renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors might restrain the structural/electrical remodeling associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). Limited evidence exists regarding the potential benefits of RAS inhibition post-acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients with AF. This study sought to assess the association between RAS inhibition and all-cause mortality and new-onset AF in patients with/without congestive heart failure (CHF) post-AMI. METHODS AND RESULTS Patients hospitalized for AMI between 2006 and 2012 were identified in Swedish registries. Patients were stratified in 4 subgroups; patients with CHF and AF (n=11 489); patients with CHF without AF (n=31 676); patients with AF without CHF (n=10 066); and patients without both CHF and AF (n=59 417). Patients exposed to RAS inhibition were compared to nontreated. Three-year risk of all-cause mortality and new-onset AF was assessed using adjusted Cox regression analyses. At discharge, 83 291 (73.9%) patients received RAS inhibition. RAS inhibition was associated with lower 3-year risk of all-cause mortality in CHF patients with AF, adjusted hazard ratio (HR) with 95% CI 0.75 (0.70-0.81), CHF patients without AF, HR 0.65 (0.60-0.69), AF patients without CHF, HR 0.82 (0.75-0.90), and in patients without CHF and AF, HR 0.76 (0.72-0.81), respectively. RAS inhibition was not associated with lower 3-year risk of new-onset AF in patients without AF but with/without CHF; HR 0.96 (0.84-1.10) and 1.12 (1.02-1.22), respectively. CONCLUSIONS RAS inhibition post-AMI was associated with lower risk of all-cause mortality. In patients with/without CHF, RAS inhibition was not associated with lower incidence of new-onset AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gorav Batra
- Uppsala Clinical Research Center, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medical Sciences, Cardiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Pontus Andell
- Department of Cardiology, Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - David Erlinge
- Department of Cardiology, Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Stefan James
- Uppsala Clinical Research Center, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medical Sciences, Cardiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jonas Spaak
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jonas Oldgren
- Uppsala Clinical Research Center, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medical Sciences, Cardiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Preventive effect of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors on new-onset atrial fibrillation in hypertensive patients: a propensity score matching analysis. J Hum Hypertens 2016; 31:450-456. [DOI: 10.1038/jhh.2016.95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2016] [Revised: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Hsieh YC, Hung CY, Li CH, Liao YC, Huang JL, Lin CH, Wu TJ. Angiotensin-Receptor Blocker, Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor, and Risks of Atrial Fibrillation: A Nationwide Cohort Study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e3721. [PMID: 27196491 PMCID: PMC4902433 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000003721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Both angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARB) and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) have protective effects against atrial fibrillation (AF). The differences between ARB and ACEI in their effects on the primary prevention of AF remain unclear. This study compared ARB and ACEI in combined antihypertensive medications for reducing the risk of AF in patients with hypertension, and determined which was better for AF prevention in a nationwide cohort study.Patients aged ≥55 years and with a history of hypertension were identified from Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. Medical records of 25,075 patients were obtained, and included 6205 who used ARB, 8034 who used ACEI, and 10,836 nonusers (no ARB or ACEI) in their antihypertensive regimen. Cox regression models were applied to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) for new-onset AF.During an average of 7.7 years' follow-up, 1619 patients developed new-onset AF. Both ARB (adjusted HR: 0.51, 95% CI 0.44-0.58, P < 0.001) and ACEI (adjusted HR: 0.53, 95% CI 0.47-0.59, P < 0.001) reduced the risk of AF compared to nonusers. Subgroup analysis showed that ARB and ACEI were equally effective in preventing new-onset AF regardless of age, gender, the presence of heart failure, diabetes, and vascular disease, except for those with prior stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). ARB prevents new-onset AF better than ACEI in patients with a history of stroke or TIA (log-rank P = 0.012).Both ARB and ACEI reduce new-onset AF in patients with hypertension. ARB prevents AF better than ACEI in patients with a history of prior stroke or TIA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Cheng Hsieh
- From the Department of Internal Medicine (Y-CH), Chiayi Branch, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Chiayi; Cardiovascular Center, Taichung Veterans General Hospital and Department of Internal Medicine (Y-CH, C-YH, C-HL, Y-CL, J-LH, T-JW), Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei; Department of Financial and Computational Mathematics (Y-CH), Providence University, Taichung; Department of Internal Medicine (C-YH), Hsinchu Branch, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Hsinchu; Department of Nutrition (C-YH), Hungkuang University; School of Medicine (J-LH), Chung Shan Medical University; and Department of Medical Research (C-HL), Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
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Chaugai S, Meng WY, Ali Sepehry A. Effects of RAAS Blockers on Atrial Fibrillation Prophylaxis. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 2016; 21:388-404. [DOI: 10.1177/1074248415619490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Background: Impact of atrial fibrillation on clinical outcomes is well recognized, and application of renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) blockers for the prevention of atrial fibrillation (AF) is a theoretically appealing concept. However, clinical trials have yielded inconsistent results. Methods: A pooled study of 26 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the efficacy of RAAS blockers on AF prophylaxis was performed. Results: A total of 28 reports from 26 randomized controlled trials enrolled 165 387 patients, with an overall 24% reduction in the incidence of AF (odds ratio [OR]: 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.68-0.85], P = .000). Forty-nine percent reduction in the incidence of AF (OR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.30-0.85, P = .010) in systolic heart failure was observed, whereas no significant effect was observed in patients with diastolic heart failure, postmyocardial infarction, and high cardiovascular disease risk. There was a 19% (OR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.67-1.00, P = .037) reduction in new-onset and 54% (OR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.33-0.62, P = .000) reduction in recurrent AF in hypertensive patients with 39% (OR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.44-0.84, P = .003) risk reduction against calcium blockers and 41% (OR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.44-0.80, P = .001) risk reduction against β blockers. Angiotensin-receptor blocker appeared marginally superior to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor in primary and secondary prevention. Conclusion: This study suggests that RAAS blockade effectively suppresses AF in systolic heart failure, and hypertensives derive greater benefit against new-onset and recurrent AF compared to β blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandip Chaugai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Hypertension, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wen Yeng Meng
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Hypertension, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Amir Ali Sepehry
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, College for Interdisciplinary Studies, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Seccia TM, Caroccia B, Muiesan ML, Rossi GP. Atrial fibrillation and arterial hypertension: A common duet with dangerous consequences where the renin angiotensin-aldosterone system plays an important role. Int J Cardiol 2016; 206:71-6. [PMID: 26774837 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2016.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2015] [Revised: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 01/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) represents the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, as it affects 1%-2% of the general population and up to 15% of people over 80 years. High blood pressure, due to its high prevalence in the general population, is by far the most common condition associated with AF, although a variety of diseases, including valvular, coronary heart and metabolic diseases, are held to create the substrate favouring AF. Due to the concomitance of these conditions, it is quite challenging to dissect the precise role of high blood pressure in triggering/causing AF. Hence, even though the intimate association between high blood pressure and AF has been known for decades, the underlying mechanisms remain partially unknown. Accumulating evidences point to a major role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in inducing cardiac inflammation and fibrosis, and therefore electric and structural atrial and ventricular remodelling, with changes in ions and cell junctions leading to AF development. These evidences are herein reviewed with a particular emphasis to the role of the renin-angiotensin-system aldosterone system.
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Mohanty S, Mohanty P, Trivedi C, Gianni C, Bai R, Burkhardt JD, Gallinghouse JG, Horton R, Sanchez JE, Hranitzky PM, Al-Ahmad A, Bailey S, Di Biase L, Natale A. Association of pretreatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors with improvement in ablation outcome in atrial fibrillation patients with low left ventricular ejection fraction. Heart Rhythm 2015; 12:1963-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2015.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Emdin CA, Callender T, Cao J, Rahimi K. Effect of antihypertensive agents on risk of atrial fibrillation: a meta-analysis of large-scale randomized trials. Europace 2015; 17:701-10. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euv021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Accepted: 01/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
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Choisy SC, Kim SJ, Hancox JC, Jones SA, James AF. Effects of candesartan, an angiotensin II receptor type I blocker, on atrial remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Physiol Rep 2015; 3:3/1/e12274. [PMID: 25626873 PMCID: PMC4387744 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.12274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertension‐induced structural remodeling of the left atrium (LA) has been suggested to involve the renin–angiotensin system. This study investigated whether treatment with an angiotensin receptor blocker, candesartan, regresses atrial remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Effects of treatment with candesartan were compared to treatment with a nonspecific vasodilatator, hydralazine. Thirty to 32‐week‐old adult male SHR were either untreated (n = 15) or received one of either candesartan cilexetil (n = 9; 3 mg/kg/day) or hydralazine (n = 10; 14 mg/kg/day) via their drinking water for 14 weeks prior to experiments. Untreated age‐ and sex‐matched Wistar‐Kyoto rats (WKY; n = 13) represented a normotensive control group. Untreated SHR were hypertensive, with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) compared to WKY, but there were no differences in systolic pressures in excised, perfused hearts. LA from SHR were hypertrophied and showed increased fibrosis compared to those from WKY, but there was no change in connexin‐43 expression or phosphorylation. Treatment with candesartan reduced systolic tail artery pressures of conscious SHR below those of normotensive WKY and caused regression of both LVH and LA hypertrophy. Although hydralazine reduced SHR arterial pressures to those of WKY and led to regression of LA hypertrophy, it had no significant effect on LVH. Notably, LA fibrosis was unaffected by treatment with either agent. These data show that candesartan, at a dose sufficient to reduce blood pressure and LVH, did not cause regression of LA fibrosis in hypertensive rats. On the other hand, the data also suggest that normalization of arterial pressure can lead to the regression of LA hypertrophy. Structural remodeling of the atria, involving atria enlargement and fibrosis, in hypertension increases the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF). Treatment of spontaneously hypertensive rats with the angiotensin receptor blocker, candesartan, reduced arterial pressure and myocardial hypertrophy to the level of normotensive rats but had no effect on atrial fibrosis. The resistance of hypertension‐associated atrial fibrosis to the AT1 receptor antagonist may provide insight into the basis to the ineffectiveness of drugs targeting the renin–angiotensin system in reducing incidence of AF in hypertensive patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie C Choisy
- Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, School of Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Shang-Jin Kim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju-City, South Korea
| | - Jules C Hancox
- Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, School of Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Sandra A Jones
- School of Biological, Biomedical and Environmental Sciences, University of Hull, Hull, U.K
| | - Andrew F James
- Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, School of Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
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Danelich IM, Reed BN, Hollis IB, Cook AM, Rodgers JE. Clinical update on the management of atrial fibrillation. Pharmacotherapy 2014; 33:422-46. [PMID: 23553811 DOI: 10.1002/phar.1217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a cardiac arrhythmia associated with significant morbidity and mortality, affecting more than 3 million people in the United States and 1-2% of the population worldwide. Its estimated prevalence is expected to double within the next 50 years. During the past decade, there have been significant advances in the treatment of AF. Studies have demonstrated that a rate control strategy, with a target resting heart rate between 80 and 100 beats/minute, is recommended over rhythm control in the vast majority of patients. The CHA2 DS2 ≥ (congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥ 65 yrs, diabetes mellitus, stroke or transient ischemic attack, vascular disease, female gender) scoring system is a potentially useful stroke risk stratification tool that incorporates additional risk factors to the commonly used CHADS2 (congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥ 75 years, diabetes mellitus, stroke transient ischemic attack) scoring tool. Similarly, a convenient scheme, termed HAS-BLED (hypertension, abnormal renal/liver function, stroke, bleeding history or predisposition, labile international normalized ratio, elderly, drugs/alcohol concomitantly), to assess bleeding risk has emerged that may be useful in select patients. Furthermore, new antithrombotic strategies have been developed as potential alternatives to warfarin, including dual-antiplatelet therapy with clopidogrel plus aspirin and the development of new oral anticoagulants such as dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and apixaban. Vernakalant has emerged as another potential option for pharmacologic conversion of AF, whereas recent trials have better defined the role of dronedarone in the maintenance of sinus rhythm. Finally, catheter ablation represents another alternative to manage AF, whereas upstream therapy with inhibitors of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, statins, and polyunsaturated fatty acids could potentially prevent the occurrence of AF. Despite substantial progress in the management of AF, significant uncertainty surrounds the optimal treatment of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilya M Danelich
- Department of Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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Nair GM, Nery PB, Redpath CJ, Birnie DH. The Role Of Renin Angiotensin System In Atrial Fibrillation. J Atr Fibrillation 2014; 6:972. [PMID: 27957054 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2013] [Revised: 02/26/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent arrhythmia and its incidence is on the rise. AF causes significant morbidity and mortality leading to rising AF-related health care costs. There is experimental and clinical evidence from animal and human studies that suggests a role for the renin angiotensin system (RAS) in the etiopathogenesis of AF. This review appraises the current understanding of RAS antagonism, using angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) and aldosterone antagonists (AA), for prevention of AF. RAS antagonism has proven to be effective for primary and secondary prevention of AF in subjects with heart failure and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction.However, most of the evidence for the protective effect of RAS antagonism is from clinical trials that had AF as a secondary outcome or from unspecified post-hoc analyses. The evidence for prevention in subjects without heart failure and with normal LV function is not as clear. RAS antagonism, in the absence of concomitant antiarrhythmic therapy, was not shown to reduce post cardioversion AF recurrences. RAS antagonism in subjects undergoing catheter ablation has also been ineffective in preventing AF recurrences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girish M Nair
- Arrhythmia Service, Division of Cardiology University of Ottawa Heart Institute 40 Ruskin Ave, Ottawa Canada - K1Y 4W7
| | - Pablo B Nery
- Arrhythmia Service, Division of Cardiology University of Ottawa Heart Institute 40 Ruskin Ave, Ottawa Canada - K1Y 4W7
| | - Calum J Redpath
- Arrhythmia Service, Division of Cardiology University of Ottawa Heart Institute 40 Ruskin Ave, Ottawa Canada - K1Y 4W7
| | - David H Birnie
- Arrhythmia Service, Division of Cardiology University of Ottawa Heart Institute 40 Ruskin Ave, Ottawa Canada - K1Y 4W7
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Marott SC, Nielsen SF, Benn M, Nordestgaard BG. Antihypertensive treatment and risk of atrial fibrillation: a nationwide study. Eur Heart J 2013; 35:1205-14. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/eht507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
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Hogarth AJ, Dobson LE, Tayebjee MH. During ablation for atrial fibrillation, is simultaneous renal artery ablation appropriate? J Hum Hypertens 2013; 27:707-14. [PMID: 23945464 DOI: 10.1038/jhh.2013.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2013] [Revised: 07/10/2013] [Accepted: 07/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Over the past few decades, the mainstay of hypertension management has been pharmacological therapy; however, there is now a growing body of evidence that drug-resistant hypertension can be managed effectively by renal artery ablation. Several studies have documented the feasibility and safety of this treatment, although data regarding long-term outcomes are still emerging. Atrial fibrillation (AF) and hypertension commonly coexist, and recent work has demonstrated improved outcomes from catheter ablation of AF with concomitant renal artery denervation at little extra cost in terms of time and resource. The aim of this review is to explore the link between hypertension and AF, the synergistic effect of renal artery ablation on AF ablation, explain how this may work and address unanswered questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Hogarth
- Department of Cardiology, Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds, UK
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Blockade of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) for primary prevention of non-valvular atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta analysis of randomized controlled trials. Int J Cardiol 2013; 165:17-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2012.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2011] [Revised: 02/02/2012] [Accepted: 02/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition or mineralocorticoid receptor blockade do not affect prevalence of atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Crit Care Med 2012; 40:2805-12. [PMID: 22824930 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0b013e31825b8be2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study tested the hypothesis that interruption of the renin-angiotensin system with either an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist will decrease the prevalence of atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery. DESIGN Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study. SETTING University-affiliated hospitals. PATIENTS Four hundred forty-five adult patients in normal sinus rhythm undergoing elective cardiac surgery. INTERVENTIONS One week to 4 days prior to surgery, patients were randomized to treatment with placebo, ramipril (2.5 mg the first 3 days followed by 5 mg/day, with the dose reduced to 2.5 mg/day on the first postoperative day only), or spironolactone (25 mg/day). MEASUREMENTS The primary endpoint was the occurrence of electrocardiographically confirmed postoperative atrial fibrillation. Secondary endpoints included acute renal failure, hyperkalemia, the prevalence of hypotension, length of hospital stay, stroke, and death. MAIN RESULTS The prevalence of atrial fibrillation was 27.2% in the placebo group, 27.8% in the ramipril group, and 25.9% in the spironolactone group (p=.95). Patients in the ramipril (0.7%) or spironolactone (0.7%) group were less likely to develop acute renal failure than those randomized to placebo (5.4%, p=.006). Patients in the placebo group tended to be hospitalized longer than those in the ramipril or spironolactone group (6.8±8.2 days vs. 5.7±3.2 days and 5.8±3.4 days, respectively, p=.08 for the comparison of placebo vs. the active treatment groups using log-rank test). Compared with patients in the placebo group, patients in the spironolactone group were extubated sooner after surgery (576.4±761.5 mins vs. 1091.3±3067.3 mins, p=.04). CONCLUSIONS Neither angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition nor mineralocorticoid receptor blockade decreased the primary outcome of postoperative atrial fibrillation. Treatment with an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist was associated with decreased acute renal failure. Spironolactone use was also associated with a shorter duration of mechanical ventilation after surgery.
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32
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Imazio M. Primary Prevention of Atrial Fibrillation where are we in 2012? J Atr Fibrillation 2012; 5:608. [PMID: 28496763 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2012] [Revised: 06/04/2012] [Accepted: 06/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Drugs to alter or delay myocardial remodelling associated with heart failure, hypertension, or inflammation in the post-operative setting, may prevent the development of atrial fibrillation. Current experimental and clinical evidences support specific treatments for defined patient population (i.e. ACE-inhibitors and ARB for chronic heart failure and hypertension expecially with LV hypertrophy; statins, corticosteroids and possibly colchicine after cardiac surgery).
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Imazio
- Cardiology Department, Maria Vittoria Hospital, Torino, Italy
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33
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Hypertension and atrial fibrillation: diagnostic approach, prevention and treatment. Position paper of the Working Group 'Hypertension Arrhythmias and Thrombosis' of the European Society of Hypertension. J Hypertens 2012; 30:239-52. [PMID: 22186358 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0b013e32834f03bf] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Hypertension is the most common cardiovascular disorder and atrial fibrillation is the most common clinically significant arrhythmia. Both these conditions frequently coexist and their prevalence increases rapidly with aging. There are different risk factors and clinical conditions predisposing to the development of atrial fibrillation, but due its high prevalence, hypertension is still the main risk factor for the development of atrial fibrillation. Several pathophysiologic mechanisms (such as structural changes, neurohormonal activation, fibrosis, atherosclerosis, etc.) have been advocated to explain the onset of atrial fibrillation. The presence of atrial fibrillation per se increases the risk of stroke but its coexistence with high blood pressure leads to an abrupt increase of cardiovascular complications. Different risk models are available for the risk stratification and the prevention of thromboembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation. In all of them hypertension is present and is an important risk factor. Antihypertensive treatment may contribute to reduce this risk, and it seems some classes are superior to others in the prevention of new-onset atrial fibrillation and prevention of stroke. Antithrombotic treatment with warfarin is effective in the prevention of thromboembolic events, although quite recently, new classes of anticoagulants that do not require international normalized ratio monitoring have been introduced with promising results.
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Blood pressure and other determinants of new-onset atrial fibrillation in patients at high cardiovascular risk in the Ongoing Telmisartan Alone and in Combination With Ramipril Global Endpoint Trial/Telmisartan Randomized AssessmeNt Study in ACE iNtolerant subjects with cardiovascular Disease studies. J Hypertens 2012; 30:1004-14. [DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0b013e3283522a51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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35
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Barrett TW, Storrow AB, Jenkins CA, Harrell FE, Amdahl J, Russ S, Slovis CM, Darbar D. Assessment of the Framingham risk factors among ED patients with newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation. Am J Emerg Med 2012; 30:151-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2010.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2010] [Revised: 10/15/2010] [Accepted: 11/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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Disertori M, Quintarelli S. Renin-Angiotensin System and AtrialFibrillation:Understanding the Connection. J Atr Fibrillation 2011; 4:398. [PMID: 28496706 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2011] [Revised: 09/19/2011] [Accepted: 12/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) arises as a result of a complex interaction of triggers, perpetuators and the substrate. The recurrence of AF may be partially related to a biologic phenomenon known as remodeling, in which the electrical, mechanical, and structural properties of the atrial tissue and cardiac cells are progressively altered,creating a more favorable substrate. Atrial remodeling is in part a consequence of arrhythmia itself. Therefore,to prevent and to treat AF, much attention has been directed to upstream therapies to alter the arrhythmia substrate and to reduce atrial remodeling. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a keyrole in these strategies. In this review we analyze the experimental and clinical evidence regarding the efficacy of RAAS inhibitors in AF treatment. In the primary prevention of AF, meta-analyses have shown that risk of new-onset AF in patients with congestive heart failure and left ventricular dysfunction is reduced by RAAS inhibitors, whereas in hypertensive and post-myocardial infarction patients, the results are less evident. In the secondary prevention of AF, some large, prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled studieswith angiotensin II-receptor blockers returned negative results. Unfortunately, the approach of using RAASinhibitors as antiarrhythmic drugs to prevent both new-onset and recurrent AF is in decline because negativetrial results are accumulating, with the exception of the results in patients with congestive heart failure.
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Holecki M, Szewieczek J, Chudek J. Effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors beyond lowering blood pressure--are they important for doctors? Pharmacol Rep 2011; 63:740-51. [PMID: 21857085 DOI: 10.1016/s1734-1140(11)70586-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2010] [Revised: 11/18/2010] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Large clinical trials and experimental studies have indicated that not all of the beneficial properties of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-Is) can be attributed to the lowering of blood pressure. The aim of this study was to assess doctors' opinions about the importance of the cardioprotective effects of ACE-Is beyond lowering blood pressure. The study participants (685 physicians) filled in a questionnaire testing doctors' knowledge of all of the therapeutic effects of ACE-Is not directly associated with lowering blood pressure and their clinical importance. In addition, each doctor filled in 20 questionnaires for subsequent patients treated with any ACE-I. Fifty-nine percent of the investigated physicians were aware of most of the therapeutic effects of ACE-Is. The most important therapeutic effects for the respondents were the following: reduction of peripheral resistance, inhibition of left ventricle hypertrophy, inhibition of vascular remodeling and atherosclerotic plaque stabilization. The most commonly prescribed ACE-Is were perindopril, lisinopril and chinalapril for inhibition of left ventricular hypertrophy and perindopril, ramipril and chinalapril for inhibition of arterial wall remodeling. The ACE-Is that were used to reduce peripheral vessel resistance included perindopril, lisinopril and trandolapril. Drugs used to stabilize the plaque included perindopril, lisinopril and cilazapril. The therapeutic effects of ACE-Is beyond lowering blood pressure were considered to be valid and important in daily clinical practice for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and diabetic complications. The attribution of the effects of a particular ACE-I was not always in accordance with evidence-based medicine. The obtained treatment outcomes were attributed to the entire group of ACE-Is.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Holecki
- Department of Internal Medicine and Metabolic Diseases, Medical University of Silesia, Ziołowa 45-47, PL 40-635 Katowice, Poland
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Burashnikov A, Antzelevitch C. Novel pharmacological targets for the rhythm control management of atrial fibrillation. Pharmacol Ther 2011; 132:300-13. [PMID: 21867730 PMCID: PMC3205214 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2011.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2011] [Accepted: 08/05/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a growing clinical problem associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Development of safe and effective pharmacological treatments for AF is one of the greatest unmet medical needs facing our society. In spite of significant progress in non-pharmacological AF treatments (largely due to the use of catheter ablation techniques), anti-arrhythmic agents (AADs) remain first line therapy for rhythm control management of AF for most AF patients. When considering efficacy, safety and tolerability, currently available AADs for rhythm control of AF are less than optimal. Ion channel inhibition remains the principal strategy for termination of AF and prevention of its recurrence. Practical clinical experience indicates that multi-ion channel blockers are generally more optimal for rhythm control of AF compared to ion channel-selective blockers. Recent studies suggest that atrial-selective sodium channel block can lead to safe and effective suppression of AF and that concurrent inhibition of potassium ion channels may potentiate this effect. An important limitation of the ion channel block approach for AF treatment is that non-electrical factors (largely structural remodeling) may importantly determine the generation of AF, so that "upstream therapy", aimed at preventing or reversing structural remodeling, may be required for effective rhythm control management. This review focuses on novel pharmacological targets for the rhythm control management of AF.
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Huang G, Xu JB, Liu JX, He Y, Nie XL, Li Q, Hu YM, Zhao SQ, Wang M, Zhang WY, Liu XR, Wu T, Arkin A, Zhang TJ. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers decrease the incidence of atrial fibrillation: a meta-analysis. Eur J Clin Invest 2011; 41:719-33. [PMID: 21250983 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2362.2010.02460.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is not a general agreement regarding antiarrhythmic effects on atrial fibrillation (AF) of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). This study was to assess whether ACEIs and ARBs could decrease the incidence of AF. MATERIALS AND METHODS Medline, Embase and Cochrane Library databases were searched for trials reported from 1950 to May 2009. Search terms included 'randomized controlled trial (RCT), controlled clinical trials, random allocation' and medical subject headings that included all spellings of ACEIs and ARBs agents, 'atrial fibrillation' and 'atrial flutter'. Randomized, controlled human trials of ACEIs or ARBs reporting AF were included. Data were extracted independently by two reviewers using a predefined data extraction sheet, including study quality indicators. Meta-analysis and subgroup analyses were carried out with a random effects model. RESULTS Twenty-one trials including 91,381 patients and 5730 AF events were identified. Overall, ACEIs/ARBs reduced the relative risk (c) of AF by 25%. In primary and secondary prevention, ACEIs/ARBs decreased the incidence of AF by 24% and 27%, respectively. Patients with hypertension (RR: 0·71, 95%CI: 0·54-0·92), patients with chronic heart failure (RR: 0·58, 95%CI: 0·39-0·87) and those with AF (RR: 0·71, 95%CI: 0·52-0·96) benefited from ACEIs/ARBs treatment. CONCLUSIONS ACEIs/ARBs are effective for primary prevention and secondary prevention of AF. They decrease the incidence of AF especially in patients with hypertension, patients with chronic heart failure and those with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Huang
- Department of Cardiology, the Second People's Hospital of Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
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Savelieva I, Kakouros N, Kourliouros A, Camm AJ. Upstream therapies for management of atrial fibrillation: review of clinical evidence and implications for European Society of Cardiology guidelines. Part I: primary prevention. Europace 2011; 13:308-28. [PMID: 21345926 DOI: 10.1093/europace/eur002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. It is also a progressive disease secondary to continuous structural remodelling of the atria due to AF itself, to changes associated with ageing, and to deterioration of underlying heart disease. Current management aims at preventing the recurrence of AF and its consequences (secondary prevention) and includes risk assessment and prevention of stroke, ventricular rate control, and rhythm control therapies including antiarrhythmic drugs and catheter or surgical ablation. The concept of primary prevention of AF with interventions targeting the development of substrate and modifying risk factors for AF has emerged as a result of recent experiments that suggested novel targets for mechanism-based therapies. Upstream therapy refers to the use of non-antiarrhythmic drugs that modify the atrial substrate- or target-specific mechanisms of AF to prevent the occurrence or recurrence of the arrhythmia. Such agents include angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), statins, n-3 (ω-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids, and possibly corticosteroids. Animal experiments have compellingly demonstrated the protective effect of these agents against electrical and structural atrial remodelling in association with AF. The key targets of upstream therapy are structural changes in the atria, such as fibrosis, hypertrophy, inflammation, and oxidative stress, but direct and indirect effects on atrial ion channels, gap junctions, and calcium handling are also applied. Although there have been no formal randomized controlled studies (RCTs) in the primary prevention setting, retrospective analyses and reports from the studies in which AF was a pre-specified secondary endpoint have shown a sustained reduction in new-onset AF with ACEIs and ARBs in patients with significant underlying heart disease (e.g. left ventricular dysfunction and hypertrophy), and in the incidence of AF after cardiac surgery in patients treated with statins. In the secondary prevention setting, the results with upstream therapies are significantly less encouraging. Although the results of hypothesis-generating small clinical studies or retrospective analyses in selected patient categories have been positive, larger prospective RCTs have yielded controversial, mostly negative, results. Notably, the controversy exists on whether upstream therapy may impact mortality and major non-fatal cardiovascular events in patients with AF. This has been addressed in retrospective analyses and large prospective RCTs, but the results remain inconclusive pending further reports. This review provides a contemporary evidence-based insight into the role of upstream therapies in primary (Part I) and secondary (Part II) prevention of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Savelieva
- Division of Cardiac and Vascular Sciences, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, UK.
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Sicouri S, Cordeiro JM, Talarico M, Antzelevitch C. Antiarrhythmic effects of losartan and enalapril in canine pulmonary vein sleeve preparations. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2011; 22:698-705. [PMID: 21159010 PMCID: PMC3061245 DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-8167.2010.01972.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II-receptor blockers (ARBs) are prototypes of "upstream" therapy for the management of atrial fibrillation (AF). Ectopic activity arising from the PV sleeves plays a prominent role in the development of AF. METHODS Transmembrane action potentials were recorded from canine superfused left superior or inferior PV sleeves using standard microelectrode techniques. Acetylcholine (ACh, 1 μM), isoproterenol (1 μM), high calcium ([Ca(2+)](o) = 5.4 mM) or a combination was used to induce early or delayed afterdepolarizations (EADs or DADs) and triggered activity. RESULTS The ARB losartan (1 μM, n = 5) and the ACE inhibitor enalapril (10 μM, n = 5) produced no significant change in action potential duration, maximum rate of rise of action potential upstroke (V(max)), action potential amplitude or take-off potential at basic cycle lengths of 200 to 2000 ms. Losartan (1 μM) and enalapril (10-20 μM) markedly attenuated or suppressed EADs and DAD-induced triggered activity elicited by exposure of the PV sleeves to ACh, isoproterenol or high calcium following rapid pacing in 6 of 6 (losartan) and 4 of 5 (enalapril) PV sleeve preparations. Neither losartan nor enalapril altered Ca(2+) or K(+) channel currents in enzymatically-dissociated atrial myocytes at these concentrations. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that in addition to their "upstream" effects to reduce atrial structural remodeling, ACE inhibitors and ARBs exert a "direct" antiarrhythmic effect by suppressing triggers responsible for the genesis of AF and other atrial arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge Sicouri
- Masonic Medical Research Laboratory, Utica, New York 13501-1787, USA.
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42
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Schotten U, Verheule S, Kirchhof P, Goette A. Pathophysiological mechanisms of atrial fibrillation: a translational appraisal. Physiol Rev 2011; 91:265-325. [PMID: 21248168 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00031.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 852] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an arrhythmia that can occur as the result of numerous different pathophysiological processes in the atria. Some aspects of the morphological and electrophysiological alterations promoting AF have been studied extensively in animal models. Atrial tachycardia or AF itself shortens atrial refractoriness and causes loss of atrial contractility. Aging, neurohumoral activation, and chronic atrial stretch due to structural heart disease activate a variety of signaling pathways leading to histological changes in the atria including myocyte hypertrophy, fibroblast proliferation, and complex alterations of the extracellular matrix including tissue fibrosis. These changes in electrical, contractile, and structural properties of the atria have been called "atrial remodeling." The resulting electrophysiological substrate is characterized by shortening of atrial refractoriness and reentrant wavelength or by local conduction heterogeneities caused by disruption of electrical interconnections between muscle bundles. Under these conditions, ectopic activity originating from the pulmonary veins or other sites is more likely to occur and to trigger longer episodes of AF. Many of these alterations also occur in patients with or at risk for AF, although the direct demonstration of these mechanisms is sometimes challenging. The diversity of etiological factors and electrophysiological mechanisms promoting AF in humans hampers the development of more effective therapy of AF. This review aims to give a translational overview on the biological basis of atrial remodeling and the proarrhythmic mechanisms involved in the fibrillation process. We pay attention to translation of pathophysiological insights gained from in vitro experiments and animal models to patients. Also, suggestions for future research objectives and therapeutical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Physiology, University Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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Durin O, Pedrinazzi C, Inama G. Focus on renin-angiotensin system modulation and atrial fibrillation control after GISSI AF results. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2011; 11:912-8. [PMID: 20729747 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0b013e32833cdd6f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation is the most frequently encountered arrhythmia in clinical practice. Given that atrial fibrillation is steadily increasing and that the medium to long-term efficacy of antiarrhythmic drugs has proved poor, it is essential to seek new therapies to prevent its onset and to effectively control recurrences. The study of nonantiarrhythmic drugs that act on the atrial remodeling that constitutes the substrate of the arrhythmia is a new and very interesting field of research. In this regard, several molecules that interact with the renin-angiotensin system at the level of the enzymatic or receptor cascade have been investigated in the past 10 years; some results have been very promising, whereas others have been extremely disappointing. In particular, the publication in 2008 of the results of GISSI AF, a rigorously designed Italian prospective study conducted on a large number of patients, revealed no statistically significant differences between the active drug and a placebo in preventing arrhythmia recurrences. In this study, we reassess the rationale behind the use of this class of drugs for 'antiarrhythmic' purposes, re-examine the most significant results reported in the clinical literature since 1999 and discuss the results of the GISSI AF study in this light.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ornella Durin
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiocerebrovascular Department, Ospedale Maggiore, largo U. Dossena 2, Crema, Italy
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Zografos T, Katritsis DG. Inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system for prevention of atrial fibrillation. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2011; 33:1270-85. [PMID: 20636314 DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.2010.02832.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a source of considerable morbidity and mortality. There has been compelling evidence supporting the role of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in the genesis and perpetuation of AF through atrial remodeling, and experimental studies have validated the utilization of RAS inhibition for AF prevention. This article reviews clinical trials on the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) for the prevention of AF. Results have been variable, depending on the clinical background of treated patients. ACEIs and ARBs appear beneficial for primary prevention of AF in patients with heart failure, whereas they are not equally effective in hypertensive patients with normal left ventricular function. Furthermore, the use of ACEIs or ARBs for secondary prevention of AF has been found beneficial only after electrical cardioversion. Additional data are needed to establish the potential clinical role of renin-angiotensin inhibition for prevention of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodoros Zografos
- Department of Cardiology, Athens Euroclinic, 9 Athanassiadou Street, Athens, Greece
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Calò L, Martino A, Sciarra L, Ciccaglioni A, De Ruvo E, De Luca L, Sette A, Giunta G, Lioy E, Fedele F. Upstream effect for atrial fibrillation: still a dilemma? PACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY: PACE 2010; 34:111-28. [PMID: 21029134 DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.2010.02942.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia in clinical practice. Ion channel blocking agents are often characterized by limited long-term efficacy and several side effects. In addition, ablative invasive procedures are neither easily accessible nor always efficacious. The "upstream therapy," which includes angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, aldosterone receptor antagonists, statins, glucocorticoids, and ω-3 poly-unsaturated fatty acids, targets arrhythmia substrate, influencing atrial structural and electrical remodeling that play an essential role in atrial fibrillation induction and maintenance. The mechanisms involved and the most important clinical evidence regarding the upstream therapy influence on atrial fibrillation are presented in this review. Some open questions are also proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Calò
- Division of Cardiology, Policlinico Casilino ASL RMB, Rome, Italy
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The Role of Renin–Angiotensin System Blockade Therapy in the Prevention of Atrial Fibrillation: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2010; 88:521-31. [DOI: 10.1038/clpt.2010.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent arrhythmia found in clinical practice. The majority of patients with AF are still candidates for antiarrhythmic drug treatment, not only for acute reversion to sinus rhythm but also for long-term treatment to prevent recurrences of AF. Currently available antiarrhythmic drugs, however, are unable to provide complete efficacy in all patients, and present problematic risks of proarrhythmia. The progressively increasing prevalence of AF supports the need to develop improved therapeutic approaches for the clinical management of arrhythmia. Accordingly, new treatment techniques aimed at suppressing the origin of the arrhythmogenic foci have been developed in the last decade. However, ablative treatments are only available for selected patients. Because of these factors, and also because primary prevention of AF should be our goal, the introduction of non-antiarrhythmic agents that could prevent both new-onset AF and recurrences of AF may eventually improve patient outcomes and reduce the incidence of this epidemic disease. The potential clinical value of these non-antiarrhythmic options is currently under active investigation. There is now clinical and experimental evidence that many drugs may have beneficial effects in preventing AF through several possible mechanisms. Non-antiarrhythmic drugs, such as ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins), corticosteroids, and N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may have a positive effect in patients with AF or in preventing AF in patients at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concepción Moro
- Department of Medicine, University of Alcala, Ramón y Cajal Hospital, Madrid, Spain.
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Schneider MP, Hua TA, Böhm M, Wachtell K, Kjeldsen SE, Schmieder RE. Prevention of atrial fibrillation by Renin-Angiotensin system inhibition a meta-analysis. J Am Coll Cardiol 2010; 55:2299-307. [PMID: 20488299 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2010.01.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 271] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2009] [Revised: 12/21/2009] [Accepted: 01/02/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The authors reviewed published clinical trial data on the effects of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibition for the prevention of atrial fibrillation (AF), aiming to define when RAS inhibition is most effective. BACKGROUND Individual studies examining the effects of RAS inhibition on AF prevention have reported controversial results. METHODS All published randomized controlled trials reporting the effects of treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers in the primary or secondary prevention of AF were included. RESULTS A total of 23 randomized controlled trials with 87,048 patients were analyzed. In primary prevention, 6 trials in hypertension, 2 trials in myocardial infarction, and 3 trials in heart failure were included (some being post-hoc analyses of randomized controlled trials). In secondary prevention, 8 trials after cardioversion and 4 trials assessing the medical prevention of recurrence were included. Overall, RAS inhibition reduced the odds ratio for AF by 33% (p < 0.00001), but there was substantial heterogeneity among trials. In primary prevention, RAS inhibition was effective in patients with heart failure and those with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy but not in post-myocardial infarction patients overall. In secondary prevention, RAS inhibition was often administered in addition to antiarrhythmic drugs, including amiodarone, further reducing the odds for AF recurrence after cardioversion by 45% (p = 0.01) and in patients on medical therapy by 63% (p < 0.00001). CONCLUSIONS This analysis supports the concept of RAS inhibition as an emerging treatment for the primary and secondary prevention of AF but acknowledges the fact that some of the primary prevention trials were post-hoc analyses. Further areas of uncertainty include potential differences among specific RAS inhibitors and possible interactions or synergistic effects with antiarrhythmic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus P Schneider
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a growing clinical problem associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Currently available antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs), although highly effective in acute cardioversion of paroxysmal AF, are generally only moderately successful in long-term maintenance of sinus rhythm. The use of AADs is often associated with an increased risk of ventricular proarrhythmia, extracardiac toxicity, and exacerbation of concomitant diseases such as heart failure. AF is commonly associated with intracardiac and extracardiac disease, which can modulate the efficacy and safety of AAD therapy. In light of the multifactorial intracardiac and extracardiac causes of AF generation, current development of anti-AF agents is focused on modulation of ion channel activity as well as on upstream therapies that reduce structural substrates. The available data indicate that multiple ion channel blockers exhibiting potent inhibition of peak I(Na) with relatively rapid unbinding kinetics, as well as inhibition of late I(Na) and I(Kr), may be preferable for the management of AF when considering both safety and efficacy.
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Shah AJ, Liu X, Jadidi AS, Haïssaguerre M. Early management of atrial fibrillation: from imaging to drugs to ablation. Nat Rev Cardiol 2010; 7:345-54. [PMID: 20421888 DOI: 10.1038/nrcardio.2010.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia, and is responsible for the highest number of rhythm-related disorders and cardioembolic strokes worldwide. Early management of this condition will lower the risk of AF-associated morbidity and mortality. Targeted drug therapy has an important role in preventing the progression of AF through modification of the substrate. Discovery of the role of pulmonary veins as a trigger has been an important breakthrough, leading to the development of pulmonary vein ablation-an established curative therapy for drug-resistant AF. Identifying the underlying reasons for the abnormal firing of venous cardiomyocytes and the widespread progressive alterations of atrial tissue found in persistent AF are challenges for the future. Novel imaging techniques may help to determine the right time for intervention, provide specific targets for ablation, and judge the efficacy of treatment. If new developments can successfully address these issues, the knowledge acquired as a result will have a vital role in preclinical and early management of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok J Shah
- Hôpital Cardiologique du Haut-Lévêque, University Hospital of Bordeaux, Avenue de Magellan, 33604 Pessac, France
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