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In the management of atrial flutter, what medication class is typically employed?

  1. Beta-blockers

  2. Calcium channel blockers

  3. ACE inhibitors

  4. Anticoagulants

The correct answer is: Beta-blockers

In the management of atrial flutter, beta-blockers are commonly utilized due to their ability to slow down conduction through the AV node and decrease heart rate. This is particularly important in atrial flutter, which can lead to rapid ventricular rates and increased myocardial oxygen demand. By employing beta-blockers, clinicians can effectively control the heart rate and improve overall hemodynamic stability in patients experiencing this arrhythmia. While other medications, such as calcium channel blockers, can also be effective in managing atrial flutter, beta-blockers are often preferred as they tend to have additional benefits, such as reducing symptoms associated with rapid heart rates. Anticoagulants are relevant in the context of thromboembolic prevention, especially if the flutter is persistent or there are risk factors for stroke, but they do not directly address heart rate control. ACE inhibitors generally play no role in the acute management of atrial flutter.