Rate control of atrial fibrillation

Abstract Women are generally underrepresented in trials, but data on sex-specific differences in the utilization and outcomes of treatments for atrial fibrillation (AF) are accumulating. Rate control is a fundamental aspect of AF treatment, but little robust evidence exists to inform the best type and intensity of rate control management for both sexes. Available data suggest that women, with generally more comorbidities, higher age, and a lower quality of life, are frequently treated less aggressively with a more conservative approach based on rate control. There is a tendency that women receive more calcium channel blockers and digoxin. In this chapter, we review sex-related dissimilarities in rate control treatment. Focus will be on sex differences in the rate versus rhythm choice and sex differences in (non)pharmacological rate control approaches.