Antiarrhythmic therapy in the elderly: pacemakers and drugs.

Investigations of syncope often fail to demonstrate any abnormality. However, in view of the ease of permanent pacemaker implantation and the potential dangers of recurrent syncope, patients with this symptom should receive pacemaker therapy. In general, acute therapy of any tachyarrhythmia associated with hemodynamic collapse consists of DC cardioversion, but skillful use of drug therapy and, occasionally, pacemaking are also highly important in preventing recurrences.