NYMC Faculty Publications
Hydroxychloroquine, Qtc Prolongation and Risk of Torsades De Pointes
Author Type(s)
Resident/Fellow, Faculty
DOI
10.5114/amsad/169982
Journal Title
Archives of Medical Sciences. Atherosclerotic Diseases
First Page
e75
Last Page
e80
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2023
Department
Medicine
Abstract
Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is a common medication used for the treatment of rheumatic diseases. As a result of its widespread use during COVID-19, there are increasing concerns about its cardiotoxicity. HCQ is known to cause QTc prolongation, and its long-term use has been associated with cardiomyopathy and conduction abnormalities. Despite reports of ventricular arrhythmia in COVID-19 patients taking HCQ, there have been reassuring data in approved indications. HCQ has been in use for several decades with a good safety profile. In addition to better disease control and prevention of flares, it is associated with decreased risk of cardiovascular diseases. But given its small risk of cardiotoxicity, clinicians should be aware of this effect and monitor patients for developing cardiac symptoms.
Recommended Citation
Subhan, S., Wang, A., Dey, S., Tang, W., & Aronow, W. S. (2023). Hydroxychloroquine, Qtc Prolongation and Risk of Torsades De Pointes. Archives of Medical Sciences. Atherosclerotic Diseases, 8, e75-e80. https://doi.org/10.5114/amsad/169982