Sudden cardiac death and the role of medical therapy.

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) accounts for more than 300,000 deaths annually in the United States. The goal of medical therapy in patients considered to be at high risk (coronary artery disease, post myocardial infarction, structural heart disease and congestive heart failure) involves treating the disease state as well prevention of potentially lethal arrhythmias. Treatment with angiotensin receptor inhibitors, beta blockers and statins has been shown to improve survival in this high risk group. The use of anti-arrhythmic drugs has been studied and found to lack efficacy and has potential for adverse effects. The role of omega-3 fatty acids in preventing sudden death continues to evolve.