Which medication is commonly known to prolong the refractory period in arrhythmia treatment?

Sotalol is recognized for its role in prolonging the refractory period, particularly in the treatment of certain types of arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. It is a class III antiarrhythmic agent, which means it works by blocking potassium channels, leading to an extended action potential duration and prolonged refractory period in cardiac tissue. This action helps in stabilizing heart rhythm and reducing the frequency of arrhythmias.

Additionally, Sotalol's ability to slow conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node contributes to its effectiveness in controlling heart rate and rhythm in patients with tachyarrhythmias. Its dual mechanism—both beta-blocking and potassium channel blocking properties—makes it particularly useful in a clinical setting where the goal is to correct dysrhythmias and improve the overall stability of the cardiac electrical system.