Ranolazine for rhythm control in atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background/objectives: Available pharmacological options for rhythm control strategy in atrial fibrillation (AF) are limited by sub-optimal efficacy and potentially serious adverse events. The aim of the present meta-analysis is to determine the efficacy and safety of ranolazine for AF management.

Methods: The present meta-analysis was conducted according to current recommendations (CRD42016039000). Two large medical databases (MEDLINE and Scopus) were systematically searched and from that eight randomized clinical trials and two non-randomized observational studies were identified. The primary endpoint was to determine the efficacy of ranolazine to prevent AF episodes. Secondary efficacy endpoints were: efficacy in converting AF to sinus rhythm, time to conversion, and reduction in AF burden. Safety endpoints included death, serious adverse events, and QTc prolongation.

Results: Ranolazine was found to be effective in reducing the risk of AF when compared to control (OR 0.47; 95% CI 0.29-0.76; p=0.003). Subgroup analysis showed a larger effect size in post-operative AF (OR 0.29; 95% CI 0.11-0.77; p=0.03) when compared to no post-operative AF (OR 0.70; 95% CI 0.54-0.83; p=0.005). Ranolazine increased the chances of successful cardioversion when added to amiodarone over amiodarone alone (OR 3.11; 95% CI 1.42-6.79; p=0.004) while significantly reducing time to conversion (SMD -2.83h; 95% CI -4.69--0.97h; p<0.001). Overall risks of death, adverse events, and QTc prolongation were comparable between ranolazine and control group.

Conclusions: Ranolazine is an effective option when used for rhythm control strategy in AF. The use of ranolazine seems to be safe and associated with few adverse events.