What is the main use of quinidine as noted in its clinical applications?

Quinidine is primarily used in the management of atrial fibrillation when taken orally. This antiarrhythmic medication works by stabilizing the heart's rhythm, making it effective for patients experiencing this type of irregular heartbeat. Atrial fibrillation can lead to various complications if left untreated, such as stroke or heart failure, so medications like quinidine are crucial for restoring normal rhythm and preventing adverse outcomes.

Its use in oral form allows for convenient administration for outpatient management of this condition, making it an essential treatment option for long-term control of atrial fibrillation. Although quinidine has other clinical applications, such as its historical use in the treatment of malaria or other arrhythmias, the primary focus in contemporary practice is on its role in atrial fibrillation.