METHODS	To assess the propafenone and sotalol efficacy in the prevention of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation ( FA ) we enrolled , in a double blind placebo controlled study over 1 year , 300 patients ( 168 males ) ; mean age 52.3 + / - 17.2 years , randomized to receive orally , three times daily , either propafenone ( mean daily dose of 13 + / - 1.5 mg/Kg ; Group A : 102 patients ) or sotalol ( mean daily dose of 3 + / - 0.4 mg/Kg ; Group B : 106 patients ) or placebo ( Group C : 92 patients ) .\