C Hensey1, D Keane. 1. Department of Cardiology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Elm Park, Dublin 4, Ireland. conorhensey@gmail.com
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Clarithromycin is a commonly used macrolide antibiotic. It is known to cause QT prolongation. Medication induced QT prolongation is a major risk factor for the development of torsade de pointes. METHODS: A 79-year-old lady presented with frequent episodes of torsade de pointes following commencement of clarithromycin. This was noted to be in association with a prolongation of the QT interval. CONCLUSION: Knowledge of medications which prolong the QT interval is important to minimize the risk of ventricular arrhythmias, which may lead to sudden death. This is essential in patients with a congenitally long QT interval.
BACKGROUND:Clarithromycin is a commonly used macrolide antibiotic. It is known to cause QT prolongation. Medication induced QT prolongation is a major risk factor for the development of torsade de pointes. METHODS: A 79-year-old lady presented with frequent episodes of torsade de pointes following commencement of clarithromycin. This was noted to be in association with a prolongation of the QT interval. CONCLUSION: Knowledge of medications which prolong the QT interval is important to minimize the risk of ventricular arrhythmias, which may lead to sudden death. This is essential in patients with a congenitally long QT interval.
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