Drug-Induced Long-QT and Torsades de Pointes in Elderly Polymedicated Patients

Introduction

Polymedication affects one in three patients older than 65 years. Its risks are widely known and are specially related to pharmacological interactions. One of these potential risks is the appearance of malignant ventricular arrhythmias when drugs that prolong QT interval are prescribed, including antibiotics, antidepressants, antiemetics, psychotropic medication or even antiarrhythmic drugs.^– The development of ventricular arrhythmias such asTorsades de Pointes (TdP), typically related to QT prolongation, is a potentially lethal complication. It is mandatory to recognize the drugs that can cause it, avoiding their joint use or planning a close monitoring in case their combination cannot be avoided.

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