Low-dose digoxin improves cardiac function in patients with heart failure, preserved ejection fraction and atrial fibrillation - the RATE-AF randomized trial.

ABSTRACT:

Aims

To compare the effect of digoxin versus beta-blockers on left ventricular function, in patients with permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) and symptoms of heart failure within the RATE-AF randomized trial.

Methods and results

Blinded echocardiograms were performed at baseline and 12-month follow-up using a pre-defined imaging protocol and the index-beat approach. The change in systolic and diastolic function was assessed, stratified by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Overall, 145 patients completed follow-up, with median age 75 years (interquartile range 69-82) and 44% women. In 119 patients with baseline LVEF ≥50%, a significantly greater improvement in systolic function was noted in patients randomized to low-dose digoxin versus beta-blockers: adjusted mean di

SUBMITTER: Bunting KV 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12803603 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature