Almokalant

Almokalant

Almokalant is a Class III antiarrhythmic agent used in the treatment of cardiac arrhythmia. It is a potassium channel blocker that prolongs the duration of the action potential, thereby lengthening the refractory period.

Pharmacology

Almokalant works by blocking the rapid component of the delayed rectifier potassium current (I_Kr) in the cardiac myocyte. This action prolongs the duration of the action potential and refractory period, which can help to prevent the re-entry of electrical impulses that can cause arrhythmia.

Clinical Use

Almokalant is used in the treatment of various types of cardiac arrhythmia, including atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter. It can be used alone or in combination with other antiarrhythmic drugs.

Side Effects

Like other Class III antiarrhythmic agents, Almokalant can cause proarrhythmia, a condition where the drug can actually cause new or worsening arrhythmias. Other potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

History

Almokalant was first synthesized in the 1980s and has been used in clinical practice since the 1990s. It was originally developed by the Swedish pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca.

See Also

• Antiarrhythmic agent
• Potassium channel blocker
• Cardiac arrhythmia
• Atrial fibrillation
• AstraZeneca

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