Clarithromycin induced torsade de pointes.
BACKGROUND
Clarithromycin is a commonly used macrolide antibiotic. It is known to cause QT prolongation. Medication induced QT prolongation is a major risk factor for the development of torsade de pointes.


METHODS
A 79-year-old lady presented with frequent episodes of torsade de pointes following commencement of clarithromycin. This was noted to be in association with a prolongation of the QT interval.


CONCLUSIONS
Knowledge of medications which prolong the QT interval is important to minimize the risk of ventricular arrhythmias, which may lead to sudden death. This is essential in patients with a congenitally long QT interval.
Hensey
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Department of Cardiology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Elm Park, Dublin 4, Ireland. conorhensey@gmail.com
Keane
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D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D017291:Clarithromycin / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004562:Electrocardiography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010138:Pacemaker, Artificial; D016171:Torsades de Pointes / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D017291:Clarithromycin