If this treatment is not successful, you may need to have a different kind of cardioversion called electrical cardioversion. Electrical cardioversion is the delivery of a jolt of electricity to restore a normal rhythm to the heart.

Tell a health care provider about:

• Any allergies you have.

• All medicines you are taking, including vitamins, herbs, eye drops, creams, and over-the-counter medicines.

• Any problems you or family members have had with anesthetic medicines.

• Any blood disorders you have.

• Any surgeries you have had.

• Any medical conditions you have.

• Whether you are pregnant or may be pregnant.

What are the risks?

What happens before the procedure?

• Your health care provider may have you start taking:

  • Blood-thinning medicines (anticoagulants) so your blood does not clot easily.

  • Medicines to help stabilize your heart rhythm.

• Ask your health care provider about:

  • Changing or stopping your regular medicines. This is especially important if you are taking diabetes medicines or blood thinners.

  • Taking medicines such as aspirin and ibuprofen. These medicines can thin your blood. Do not take these medicines unless your health care provider tells you to take them.

  • Taking over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.

• You may have a test to look for blood clots in your heart (transesophageal echocardiogram, or TEE). In this test, a tube with an instrument is passed down the esophagus. Sound waves (ultrasound) are then used to produce very clear, detailed images of the heart.

• Plan to have someone take you home from the hospital or clinic.

What happens during the procedure?

• An IV may be inserted into one of your veins.

• Sticky patches (electrodes) or metal paddles may be placed on your chest to monitor your heart.

• You may be given medicine to help you relax (sedative).

• You will be given one or more medicines by mouth or through an IV. The number of medicines will depend on your heart rhythm. You may take the medicines while you are in a clinic or in the hospital. In some cases, you may be given the medicine to take at home.

The procedure may vary among health care providers and hospitals.

What happens after the procedure?

• You may be asked to stay in the hospital so your heart rhythm can be monitored.

  • Your blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate, and blood oxygen level will be monitored until you leave the hospital or clinic.

  • If you had an IV, it will be removed before you go home.

• Do not drive for 24 hours if you were given a sedative during your procedure.

Summary

• Chemical cardioversion, also called pharmacologic cardioversion, is the use of medicine to make an abnormal heart rhythm normal again.

• You will be given one or more medicines by mouth or through an IV inserted into a vein.

• You may be asked to stay in the hospital so your heart rhythm can be monitored.

This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.