The Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) has published advice on the use of dronedarone (Multaq®) within NHS Scotland.  It is accepted for use in adult clinically stable patients with a history of, or current non-permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) to prevent recurrence of AF or to lower ventricular rate.  Its use however is restricted to patients in whom conventional first-line anti-arrhythmic medicines are ineffective, contra-indicated or not tolerated.

The drug advice (see link below) notes that dronedarone appears less effective than amiodarone in reducing AF recurrence, but it has the potential for improved tolerability compared to comparator medicines.  Treatment should be initiated on specialist advice only.