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Saudi Heart Rhythm Society Task Force on Management of Potential Arrhythmogenicity Associated with Pharmacotherapy

Naeem A AlShoaibi1, Khadijah Maghrabi2, Haitham Alanazi3

  • 1From the Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Annals of Saudi Medicine
|September 21, 2020
PubMed

Insights

COVID-19 can cause heart problems like myocardial injury and arrhythmia. Certain medications may increase risks of dangerous heart rhythms and sudden cardiac death, requiring careful patient management.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic presents evolving cardiovascular complications, including myocardial injury and arrhythmias.
  • Pharmacotherapies used for COVID-19, such as antivirals and azithromycin, may pose risks.
  • Drug-induced QT prolongation is a significant concern, potentially leading to fatal ventricular arrhythmias.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current evidence on cardiovascular complications of COVID-19.
  • To identify patient populations at high risk for adverse cardiac events.
  • To establish management guidelines for patients receiving specific pharmacotherapies.

Main Methods:

  • A task force was established by the Saudi Heart Rhythm Society.
  • The review is based on recently published reports, studies, and recommendations from major medical organizations.
  • Focus on pharmacotherapies with potential cardiac side effects.

Main Results:

  • Evidence indicates direct and indirect myocardial injury and cardiac arrhythmia associated with COVID-19.
  • Certain COVID-19 treatments carry a risk of drug-induced QT prolongation.
  • Mitigating these risks in susceptible patients is challenging.

Conclusions:

  • Clear guidelines are needed for managing COVID-19 patients at risk of cardiovascular complications.
  • Risk identification and proactive management are crucial for preventing adverse cardiac events.
  • Further research and consensus are required for optimal patient care.

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