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Randomized, controlled trial results have shown dronedarone, an amiodarone analogue, to be superior to placebo in reducing atrial fibrillation (JW Cardiol Sep 5 2007). However, findings of increased mortality with dronedarone in heart failure patients have raised concerns (JW Cardiol Jun 18 2008). Therefore, these results from ATHENA, an international study sponsored and administered by dronedarone’s manufacturer, have been eagerly anticipated. Eligible patients had AF and at least one of the following conditions: hypertension, diabetes, previous stroke or transient ischemic attack, left atrial enlargement, or LV ejection fraction of ≤40%. In all, 4628 patients were randomized to receive dronedarone (400 mg twice a day) or placebo. Only 3.9…