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Vaughan-Williams Classification — FRCA Primary MCQ

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HardPharmacology - CardiovascularVaughan-Williams ClassificationFRCA Primary

Which antiarrhythmic is a use-dependent fast sodium-channel blocker in Vaughan-Williams class Ib?

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Correct answer: ALidocaine

The best answer is “Lidocaine”. Lidocaine is a class-Ib antiarrhythmic that preferentially binds inactivated fast sodium channels; blockade becomes more prominent at higher activation frequencies, producing use dependence. This favours effects in depolarised ventricular tissue. Flecainide is class Ic, sotalol is predominantly class III with beta blockade, amiodarone has multiple actions centred on class III effects, and verapamil is class IV.

Reference: Lidocaine Injection BP 2% w/v, Summary of Product Characteristics: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/15150/smpc