niferidil

Niferidil (brand name Refralon; also known as cavutilide and RG-2) is a small molecule class III antiarrhythmic drug developed for the pharmacological cardioversion of atrial fibrillation (AF) and atrial flutter (AFL)[1][4][7][8]. Its mechanism of action involves blocking the delayed rectifier potassium channel, which leads to prolongation of both atrial and ventricular action potentials and refractory periods[1][7]. This effect increases the wavelength for reentry at rapid rates in cardiac tissue, thereby reducing the number of functional reentry circuits responsible for arrhythmias. Niferidil has demonstrated efficacy in restoring sinus rhythm in patients with persistent AF or AFL—including those with heart failure—and is being evaluated both intravenously and orally[1][3][5][7]. Clinical trials are ongoing to assess its safety, optimal dosing, and long-term effectiveness in preventing recurrence after cardioversion[3][5]. The drug is primarily under investigation in Russia.

Brand names

Refralon

Other names

cavutilideRG-2RG2RG 2