Treatment of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias with intravenous calcium channel blockers: are subtle differences worth the cost?

Verapamil and diltiazem are effective in terminating paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardias and slowing ventricular response during atrial fibrillation or flutter. Results from clinical trials for each individual drug demonstrate comparative efficacy rates, and both drugs share the same contraindications and relative precautions. Well-designed comparative clinical trials are needed to establish if either drug has any clinical advantages in a particular patient population.