Short-coupled idiopathic ventricular fibrillation (IVF) is a rare subtype of idiopathic ventricular fibrillation that is characterized by ventricular fibrillation (VF) or polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (PVT) initiated by a short-coupled premature ventricular contraction (PVC). Although patients are protected from sudden cardiac death by an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), additional antiarrhythmic drug therapy is indispensable as recurrent ICD shocks are not uncommon and can negatively affect quality of life. Verapamil and quinidine have been suggested as effective antiarrhythmic drugs, but at present it is unknown whether these drugs reduce the incidence of arrhythmic events. This pilot study will provide insight into the advisability and feasibility of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) and provide data needed to determine the most appropriate design and the sample size.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
24
Oral quinidine
Oral verapamil
Academic Medical Center
Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
Sustained ventricular arrhythmia
Sustained ventricular arrhythmia, assessed using the severity scoring system. A subject will be scored in each treatment period according to the scoring system by the Endpoint Classification Committee. The highest applicable score will be used. Ventricular arrhythmia scoring system: 0= No arrhythmic events 1. A single arrhythmic event 2. Electrical storm (≥3 episodes of sustained PVT/VF within 24 hours) 3. ≥2, but \<5 arrhythmic events 4. ≥5 arrhythmic events
Time frame: 3 years
Time to first arrhythmic event
The time between the first day in each period and the first arrhythmic event in that period
Time frame: 3 years
Incidence of quinidine-induced torsade de pointes
Time frame: 3 years
Incidence of sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia
Time frame: 3 years
Number of inappropriate ICD shocks
Time frame: 3 years
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.