A novel anti-inflammatory compound, 2-Hydroxybenzylamine (2-HOBA), reported to be effective in mice against atrial fibrillation (AF), may increase the risk of AF recurrence following ablation, according to a first-in-human pilot trial. The results of this trial were published in Circulation, Arrhythmia, and Electrophysiology. 

Participants were given either 2-HOBA (750 mg three times daily) or a placebo starting three days before the procedure and continuing for 28 days. AF recurrence was tracked through smartwatch ECG recordings. Blood samples were evaluated to measure the levels of isolevuglandins.

Patients receiving 2-HOBA had a significantly higher risk of AF recurrence in the 28 days following ablation. The odds of recurrence were over threefold higher in the 2-HOBA group (OR 3.65, 95% CI 1.31–10.16; P=0.013), even after adjusting for various clinical and procedural factors. Isolevuglandin levels were similar between both groups, suggesting no significant effect on this biomarker in the early post-ablation period.

Over a 12-month follow-up period, rates of AF recurrence between the two groups were similar after stopping the medication.