Treatment

AF is unique in every person; therefore, the treatment options need to be individualized. The focus of treating AF is a three pronged approach: heart rate control, heart rhythm control and stroke prevention. There are many medications that can be considered in treating the rate and rhythm of the heart. Your physician will prescribe these medications individually, as not all drugs work the same for every person with AF. Blood thinning medications like Coumadin, warfarin, or more recently dabigatran (Pradaxa), need to be taken to prevent stroke. These blood thinning medications need to be monitored closely for appropriate levels of effectiveness. Discuss with your physician which drug is best for you.