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QT prolongation associated with azithromycin/amiodarone combination.
P Samarendra1, S Kumari, S J Evans
1Department of Cardiology, Long Island College Hospital, Brooklyn, New York, USA. Padmaraj@aol.com
Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : PACE
|November 15, 2001
Summary
Azithromycin combined with amiodarone may prolong the QT interval, increasing the risk of dangerous heart rhythms like torsades de pointes. Caution is advised when using azithromycin with other QT-prolonging drugs.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Long-term amiodarone therapy is generally well-tolerated.
- Azithromycin is widely used for respiratory infections, often presumed safe in cardiac patients.
Observation:
- A case of QT prolongation and increased QT dispersion was observed.
- This occurred during concurrent administration of oral azithromycin and amiodarone.
Findings:
- The combination of azithromycin and amiodarone led to significant QT interval prolongation.
- Increased QT dispersion was also noted, a risk factor for ventricular arrhythmias.
Implications:
- This highlights a potential proarrhythmic effect of azithromycin, particularly in combination therapy.
- Caution is recommended when prescribing azithromycin with other QT-prolonging medications pending further research.