Final answer:
To convert atrial flutter to sinus rhythm, medications such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, antiarrhythmic agents, and sometimes digoxin are used. These drugs act on various pathways to slow the heart rate and restore a normal rhythm.
Step-by-step explanation:
To convert atrial flutter to sinus rhythm, several types of medication may be used. These include beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiarrhythmic agents. Beta-blockers, such as metoprolol and propranolol, are sympatholytic drugs that block β-receptors associated with vasoconstriction and cardioacceleration. Calcium channel blockers, including amlodipine, diltiazem, and verapamil, work by decreasing the strength of cardiac contraction and slowing down the heart rate. Antiarrhythmic agents like amiodarone and procainamide act as potassium channel blockers and are used to treat cardiac dysrhythmia by impeding the movement of K+ through voltage-gated K+ channels, affecting the cardiac action potential.
Patients with atrial flutter might also be given digoxin, which is not specifically a beta-blocker, calcium channel blocker, or a traditional antiarrhythmic agent, but can help control the heart rate.