In a what came as a surprise move to many, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory committee today voted to recommend heart arrhythmia drug rivaroxiban (Xarelto) for approval.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration reviewers have warned against immediate approval of rivaroxaban (Xarelto) and questioned effectiveness of the medication for preventing stroke in high-risk atrial fibrillation patients.

Testing new drugs is no easy task. Animal testing may show successful results that aren't replicated in humans, and having drug trials in individuals could result in undesirable side effects.

Atrial fibrillation, a common heart arrhythmia, is generally treated with a standard drug warfarin. However, a study suggests a new drug might provide the same treatment, but with a lower risk of stroke and embolism.

With obesity comes the added risk of health problems. One potential risk may be electrical heart abnormalities that can lead to heart arrhythmia.

A medication considered the standard for preventing stroke in heart arrhythmia patients may not be as effective as an anti-clotting drug that also boasts fewer side effects.

Irregular heartbeat isn't usually life-threatening. It is relatively easy to manage. However, those with the disorder may be at a heightened risk for developing dementia, including Alzheimer's disease.

Last month the PALLAS trial revealed adverse cardiovascular risks in taking dronedarone (Multaq) for irregular heart beat. Now the European Society of Cardiology is suggesting its use be limited.

Just recently heart pacemakers went wireless. Now there is potential to take them even a step further. In the future they could be light-controlled.

An irregular heart beat could be caused by a wide range of factors -- from scarring after a heart attack to diabetes and high blood pressure. New research also suggests a genetic link.