A Comparison of Beta-blockers and Calcium Channel Blockers in Atrial Fibrillation

Beta-blockers are generally prescribed for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. Their purpose is to slow the heart rate and thereby reduce the workload on the heart. However, beta-blockers can affect patients\' quality of life, for example by reducing physical performance or causing fatigue in daily life. In this study, we aim to determine whether calcium channel blockers can improve the treatment of atrial fibrillation and have a positive impact on the quality of life of patients with atrial fibrillation compared with beta-blockers. We will also investigate how calcium channel blockers affect the physical exercise capacity. In addition, we will monitor potential side effects of both medications and explore whether there are any differences between women and men over the course of the study. Both study medications, the calcium channel blocker diltiazem and the beta-blocker bisoprolol, are approved by authorities and are recommended by the European Society of Cardiology for rate control in atrial fibrillation.