Brugada phenocopy associated with multiple psychotic drugs

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Clinical Electrophysiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Brugada phenocopy (BrP) presents with electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities resembling Brugada syndrome (BrS).
• BrP can arise from diverse underlying clinical conditions, making diagnosis challenging.
• Identifying triggers for BrP is crucial for patient management and preventing adverse cardiac events.

Observation:

• This case report focuses on a patient experiencing BrP.
• The patient's condition was specifically linked to the use of psychotic drugs.
• Transient ECG changes characteristic of BrP were observed.

Findings:

• Psychotic drug administration was identified as the direct cause of the Brugada phenocopy in this patient.
• The study demonstrates a novel association between specific psychotropic medications and the development of BrP.
• ECG monitoring is essential during treatment with these drugs.

Implications:

• This finding expands the known spectrum of drug-induced arrhythmias.
• Clinicians should consider medication side effects when evaluating patients with Brugada phenocopy.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms of drug-induced BrP and inform prescribing guidelines.