[QTc-interval prolongation in therapy with atypical antipsychotics--results of an open, non-randomized survey]

The introduction of Ziprasidone stimulated discussion about frequency and importance of QTc-interval prolongations with antipsychotic therapy. In an open non-randomized study we collected data about QTc-interval, electrolytes, vital parameters and associated clinical symptoms in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics. 33 patients were scanned and some moderate QTc-interval prolongations but no clinical events were seen. Due to scarcity of such events existing data should be completed by large scale clinical studies and by registration of severe QTc-interval prolongations and torsades de pointes in central drug monitoring systems.