Possible nirmatrelvir/ritonavir-induced bradycardia in a patient with asymptomatic COVID-19

Elizabeth DeMarco1, Matthew Turnipseed1, Brian Clarke1

  • 1Shore Medical Center, Somers Point, NJ, USA.

Insights

Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, a new COVID-19 treatment, may cause symptomatic bradycardia. This case report highlights a potential adverse effect of this novel antiviral therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology
  • Cardiology

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant global mortality and morbidity.
  • Novel antiviral treatments, including nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, were developed to mitigate severe disease.
  • Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir received emergency use authorization for nonhospitalized patients.

Observation:

  • A patient was treated with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir for COVID-19.
  • The patient subsequently developed symptomatic bradycardia.

Findings:

  • This case presents a potential adverse effect of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir therapy.
  • Symptomatic bradycardia was observed in a patient receiving nirmatrelvir/ritonavir.

Implications:

  • Further investigation into the cardiovascular safety of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir is warranted.
  • Clinicians should be aware of potential adverse effects, such as bradycardia, when prescribing nirmatrelvir/ritonavir.
  • This case underscores the importance of monitoring patients for unexpected side effects of new medications.

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