Carvedilol for Atrial Fibrillation
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained heart rhythm disorder and is associated with significant symptoms and health problems including an increased risk of stroke and death. Current drug therapies are often ineffective and associated with significant side effects. Abnormalities of calcium regulation in cells may lead to triggers for AF. Emerging data suggest that abnormal intracellular calcium regulation mediated through the ryanodine receptor in heart cells may contribute to AF. Recently the investigators have shown that the β-blocker carvedilol which is most commonly used to treat patients with heart failure, modifies calcium regulation mediated through the ryanodine receptor. At present this drug is not frequently used to treat AF. Therefore the investigators will conduct a randomized trial comparing carvedilol to metoprolol for prevention of paroxysmal AF. This may result in improved health and quality of life for people who suffer AF.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
Is carvedilol safe for humans?
How does the drug Carvedilol differ from other treatments for atrial fibrillation?
Carvedilol is unique because it blocks multiple types of receptors (beta1, beta2, and alpha1), which may offer broader heart protection compared to other drugs like metoprolol that primarily target beta1 receptors. This broader action could potentially provide better outcomes for patients with heart conditions.13678
What data supports the effectiveness of the drug Carvedilol for Atrial Fibrillation?
Who Is on the Research Team?
Anne M Gillis, M.D.
Principal Investigator
Professor of Medicine
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for people with a heart rhythm disorder called paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, who've had symptoms recently. They must be able to consent and not have other serious heart conditions or life-threatening illnesses. It's not for those who can't take beta blockers due to past bad reactions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Drug Titration
Carvedilol and metoprolol are dose titrated over one month to achieve target doses
Treatment
Participants are followed for AF occurrence using event recorders after drug titration
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Carvedilol
- Metoprolol
Carvedilol is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada, Japan for the following indications:
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Calgary
Lead Sponsor
Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta
Collaborator
Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
Collaborator