Discuss rate control versus rhythm control for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). Define AF and its prevalence in the population. Briefly discuss some causes (mechanisms of arrythmia formation as discussed in lecture) and risk factors of AF and then compare and contrast the concepts of rate control versus rhythm control for treatment. Cite clinical trials research that discusses the efficacy of the two approaches. Give an example of a drug for each approach and then describe how that drug works (mechanism) to either achieve rate control or rhythm control.
