Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a growing clinical problem that is associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates. There are two principal options for the management of AF: rate and rhythm control. The rhythm control strategy aims to maintain sinus rhythm, or to restore rhythm when required, using antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs), catheter ablation, electrical cardioversion, or surgical techniques. AADs are also used to maintain sinus rhythm following catheter ablation or cardioversion. Rate control, in which fibrillation remains in the atrium, is focused on preventing the detrimental effects of rapid activation of the atria on the ventricles. Such effects include the development of cardiomyopathy and heart failure (HF). Depending on their CHADS (congestive HF, hypertension, age, diabetes mellitus, and prior stroke or transient ischemic attack) score, patients undergoing rate or rhythm control may require anticoagulation therapy to reduce the risk of stroke.