Tikosyn

Definition

Tikosyn (dofetilide) is an oral Class III antiarrhythmic medication primarily used to treat atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter. It works by blocking potassium channels, thereby prolonging the cardiac action potential.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tikosyn is specifically indicated for maintaining sinus rhythm in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter.
2. The drug's mechanism involves inhibiting the delayed rectifier potassium current, leading to prolonged repolarization.
3. Dosing of Tikosyn must be carefully adjusted based on renal function due to its potential for causing QT prolongation.
4. Patients on Tikosyn require continuous ECG monitoring when initiating therapy to detect any signs of proarrhythmia.
5. Common side effects include headache, dizziness, and risk of Torsades de Pointes, a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia.

Review Questions

• What is the primary use of Tikosyn in clinical settings?
• How does Tikosyn affect cardiac repolarization?
• Why is continuous ECG monitoring necessary when initiating Tikosyn therapy?

Related terms

Potassium Channel Blockers: A class of drugs that inhibit potassium channels to prolong the cardiac action potential.

Atrial Fibrillation: A common type of arrhythmia characterized by rapid and irregular beating of the atria.

QT Prolongation: An extended duration between the Q wave and T wave in the heart's electrical cycle, which can lead to serious arrhythmias.