Rate Control in Atrial Fibrillation

Rate Control in Atrial Fibrillation: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Crossover Comparison of Carvedilol and Metoprolol Tartrate

This study will evaluate the efficacy of metoprolol tartrate compared to carvedilol on heart rate control in patients with atrial fibrillation and a rapid ventricular rate.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Permanent atrial fibrillation
• Baseline ventricular rate (prior to treatment) > 110 bpm

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of accessory tract re-entry tachycardia
• Ejection fraction < 35% or history of NYHA Class III/IV stage C/D heart failure
• Acute coronary syndrome, percutaneous coronary intervention, or cardiac surgery in the past 2 months
• Child-Pugh class B or C hepatic dysfunction
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Thyroid disease
• Intolerance to beta-blockers
• History of lung disease resulting in hospitalization in the past year