Antiarrhythmic therapy for narrow QRS supraventricular tachyarrhythmias in newborns and infants in the first year of life: Potent tools to be handled with care

Abstract

Supraventricular tachyarrhythmias pose a significant challenge in neonates and infants, particularly within the first year of life, where prompt and effective management is crucial. By synthesizing available evidence and clinical experience, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of antiarrhythmic therapy in this vulnerable population, with a focus on narrow QRS supraventricular tachyarrhythmias. This review examines the current understanding of supraventricular tachyarrhythmia management and discusses the challenges associated with antiarrhythmic therapy in newborns and infants during the critical first year of life, evaluating the efficacy and safety of various antiarrhythmic agents commonly utilized in this population, including dosing considerations, adverse effects, and strategies for acute management and prophylactic long-term antiarrhythmic treatment.

Keywords

• Supraventricular tachyarrhythmia
• Newborn
• Infant
• Antiarrhythmic therapy
• Antiarrhythmic drug