Candesartan in the Prevention of Relapsing Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial Fibrillation Clinical Trial

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

The purpose of this study is to test the hypothesis that treatment with the angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist candesartan may reduce the recurrence rate of atrial fibrillation after electrical cardioversion.

Clinical Trial Description

Background: The most effective procedure to restore sinus rhythm in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) is electrical cardioversion, but AF recurs in 60-80% of the patients during the first year. AF is associated with electrical and anatomical remodelling of the atria, and angiotensin II is involved in the remodelling process. Studies have indicated that the angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist candesartan may counteract both electrical and anatomical remodelling induced by AF. The investigators therefore hypothesised that treatment with candesartan may reduce the recurrence rate of AF after electrical cardioversion.

Study design: 171 patients with persistent AF scheduled for electrical cardioversion are randomised in a double blind, placebo-controlled study. The patients receive tablets of candesartan 8 mg or matching placebo once daily for 3-6 weeks before cardioversion, and candesartan 16 mg or matching placebo once daily for 6 months after cardioversion. The study medication is discontinued if electrical cardioversion is unsuccessful or if AF recurrence is documented. Primary endpoint is recurrence of AF. Clinical, electrocardiographic, echocardiographic and biochemical markers will be analysed. ;

Study Design

Allocation: Randomized, Endpoint Classification: Efficacy Study, Intervention Model: Parallel Assignment, Masking: Double-Blind, Primary Purpose: Treatment

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

• Atrial Fibrillation

• NCT number: NCT00130975
• Study type: Interventional
• Source: Asker & Baerum Hospital
• Status: Completed
• Phase: Phase 3
• Start date: April 2001
• Completion date: September 2005