Out of Sync: The AFib Rate vs Rhythm Debate That Leave Us Breathless

November 15, 2025

For decades, rate control has been the preferred initial strategy in stable atrial fibrillation (AF) patients, given its simplicity and safety profile, while rhythm control has been reserved for patients with recent-onset AF, symptomatic instability, or anticipated long-term rhythm control. This has sparked an ongoing debate between both strategies. However, with the emergence of new and consistent evidence in recent years, early and continued rhythm control has been shown to benefit patients with AF. This CE will focus on the that data and review the updated guideline recommendations.

Target Audience

Pharmacist

Learning Objectives

•Review the pathophysiology of atrial fibrillation (AF) and the key factors contributing to its development.

•Compare the effectiveness and safety profiles of rate control and rhythm control strategies.

•Discuss the benefits of early rhythm control based on recent clinical evidence.

Course summary
Available credit: 
  • 1.00 ACPE Pharmacy
    The UPMC Center for Continuing Education in the Health Sciences is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) as a Provider of continuing pharmacy education.
  • 1.00 Attendance
Course opens: 
11/15/2025
Course expires: 
12/19/2025
Event starts: 
11/15/2025 - 1:00pm EST
Event ends: 
11/15/2025 - 2:00pm EST

For decades, rate control has been the preferred initial strategy in stable atrial fibrillation (AF) patients, given its simplicity and safety profile, while rhythm control has been reserved for patients with recent-onset AF, symptomatic instability, or anticipated long-term rhythm control. This has sparked an ongoing debate between both strategies. However, with the emergence of new and consistent evidence in recent years, early and continued rhythm control has been shown to benefit patients with AF. This CE will focus on the that data and review the updated guideline recommendations.

WVU Health Sciences Campus
Morgantown, WV
United States

Paul Badua 

imageIn support of improving patient care, the University of Pittsburgh is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

Pharmacy (CPE)

This knowledge-based activity provides 1.0 contact hours of continuing pharmacy education credit.

Available Credit

  • 1.00 ACPE Pharmacy
    The UPMC Center for Continuing Education in the Health Sciences is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) as a Provider of continuing pharmacy education.
  • 1.00 Attendance
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Any questions regarding registration or cancellation, please contact Lucas Berenbrok
E-Mail: [email protected]